Devices, systems and methods for treating the skin

ABSTRACT

According to some embodiments, a method of treating a skin surface of a subject comprises heating a skin surface, abrading native skin tissue of a subject using a microdermabrasion device, wherein using the microdermabrasion device comprises moving the microdermabrasion device relative to the skin surface while simultaneously delivering at least one treatment fluid to the skin surface being treated and cooling the abraded skin surface.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS & INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

This application is a continuation application of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/774,641 filed Sep. 10, 2015, which is the U.S.National Phase under 35 U.S.C. § 371 of International ApplicationPCT/US2014/024992 filed Mar. 12, 2014, titled Devices, Systems andMethods for Treating the Skin, which claims the priority benefit under35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/791,157 filedMar. 15, 2013, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/788,420 filedMar. 15, 2013. Further, the entireties of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 12/346,582 filed Dec. 30, 2008 and issued on Jan. 1, 2013 as U.S.Pat. No. 8,343,116, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/392,348filed Mar. 29, 2006 and issued on Nov. 1, 2011 as U.S. Pat. No.8,048,089, are hereby incorporated by reference herein and made a partof the present specification. The entireties of all of the foregoing arehereby incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND Field

This application relates generally to skin treatment, and morespecifically, to apparatuses, systems and methods for treating aperson's skin.

Description of the Related Art

Abrasion of the outer layer or epidermis of the skin is desirable tosmooth or blend scars, blemishes, or other skin conditions that may becaused by, for example, acne, sun exposure, and aging. Standardtechniques used to abrade the skin have generally been separated intotwo fields referred to as dermabrasion and microdermabrasion. Bothtechniques remove portions of the epidermis called the stratum corneum,which the body interprets as a mild injury. The body then replaces thelost skin cells, resulting in a new outer layer of skin. Additionally,despite the mild edema and erythema associated with the procedures, theskin looks and feels smoother because of the new outer layer of skin.

SUMMARY

According to some embodiments, a skin treatment system comprises ahandheld device comprising a main body and a tip, wherein the tip ispositioned along a distal end of the handheld device, a fluid deliveryconduit positioned at least partially within an interior of the mainbody, the fluid delivery conduit placing the tip in fluid communicationwith a fluid source, a suction conduit positioned at least partiallywithin an interior of the main body, the suction conduit placing the tipin fluid communication with a vacuum source, an air delivery conduitpositioned at least partially within an interior of the main body, theair delivery conduit being configured to deliver air to the tip, whereinthe tip comprises an outer ridge configured to contact a skin surfaceduring a treatment procedure, wherein the tip further comprises an innerridge, the inner ridge being completely surrounded by the outer ridge,wherein the outer ring and the inner ring define an annular region alongthe tip, wherein each of the fluid delivery conduit and the suctionconduit include at least one port, the ports located within the annularregion along the tip, and wherein the air delivery conduit is in fluidcommunication with an air delivery port, the air delivery port beinglocated within an area surrounded by the inner ridge.

According to some embodiments, the air delivery conduit is configured todelivery air to the tip in a pulsed pattern, wherein air delivery to thetip enhances the passage of liquids through a subject's skin during use.In other embodiments, the air delivery conduit is configured to deliveryair to the tip in a non-pulsed pattern. In some embodiments, the pulsedpattern of air delivery comprises alternating between a high pressureand a low pressure air flow. In some embodiments, both the high and lowpressure air flows are above atmospheric pressure. In one embodiment,the low pressure air flow is a negative pressure relative to atmosphericpressure.

According to some embodiments, the pulsed air pattern comprises astep-like pattern. In some embodiments, the pulsed pattern does notcomprise a step-like pattern (e.g., it comprises a sinusoidal,irregular, other pattern, etc.). In some embodiments, the system furthercomprises at least one additional suction port terminating at or nearthe inner ridge, the at least one additional suction port beingconfigured to ensure that the inner ridge remains in contact with thesubject's skin surface when the system is activated. According to someembodiments, a duty cycle of air delivered in a pulsed pattern isbetween 20 and 60% (between 25 and 40%). In one embodiment, a frequencyof air delivered in a pulsed pattern is between 2 and 15 Hz.

According to some embodiments, the system further comprises a needleassembly located along the tip, the needle assembly comprising aplurality of needles configured to selectively penetrate a subject'sskin during use. In some embodiments, the needle assembly is movablebetween a retracted position and expanded position. In one embodiment,the needle assembly is spring-biased in a retracted position. In oneembodiment, the needle assembly is moved from a retracted position to anexpanded position pneumatically, mechanically or by some othernon-manual device or method. In some embodiments, a distal end of theneedle assembly is located within an interior of the inner ridge.

According to some embodiments, one or more needles of a needle assemblyare hollow. According to some embodiments, one or more needles of aneedle assembly are solid. In some embodiments, the diameter of theneedles is 0.001-0.005 inches (e.g., 0.010 inches). In some embodiments,a longitudinal position or orientation of the needles is adjustable. Insome embodiments, a length of the needles is 0.05-5 mm (0.5-2.5 mm). Insome embodiments, at least one of the needles is thermally conditioned(e.g., heated or cooled).

According to some embodiments, the tip comprises at least one abrasivemember or portion configured to abrade skin tissue when the handhelddevice is moved relative to a subject's skin. In some embodiments, theabrasive member comprises a post, a spiral, a roughened surface and/orany other feature or member. In some embodiments, the abrasive membercomprises a sharp edge or surface.

According to some embodiments, the fluid source comprises a cartridge,the cartridge being configured for attachment to the main body of thehandheld device. In some embodiments, the fluid source comprises amanifold system that is in fluid communication with the fluid deliveryconduit.

According to some embodiments, a method of treating skin comprisesmoving a tip of a handheld device along a targeted skin surface of asubject, wherein at least one suction region of the tip is configured toform a suction seal with the subject's skin during use, activating asuction source to engage at least a portion of the tip with thesubject's skin, wherein activating a suction source draws a volume of atleast one treatment media to the skin surface being treated along the atleast one suction region of the tip, providing air to a skin surface ofthe subject through the tip while maintaining a suction seal between thetip and the subject's skin surface along the at least one suctionregion.

According to some embodiments, air is delivered in a pulsed pattern. Insome embodiments, the pulsed air pattern comprises alternating between ahigh pressure and a low pressure air flow. In one embodiment, both thehigh and low pressure air flows are above atmospheric pressure. In oneembodiment, the low pressure air flow is a negative pressure relative toatmospheric pressure.

According to some embodiments, the method further comprises abradingskin, wherein the tip comprises at least one abrading member, the atleast one abrading member being configured to abrade skin when movedrelative to a skin surface.

According to some embodiments, the method further comprises at leastpartially penetrating a skin surface of a subject using a plurality ofneedles. In one embodiment, the needles are positioned on a movableneedle assembly, the movable needle assembly being located along the tipof the handheld device.

According to some embodiments, the method further comprises preparingthe skin surface of the subject prior to moving the tip of the handhelddevice along the skin surface. In some embodiments, preparing the skincomprising heating or cooling the skin surface.

According to some embodiments, a method of treating a skin surface of asubject comprises heating a skin surface, abrading native skin tissue ofa subject using a microdermabrasion device, wherein using themicrodermabrasion device comprises moving the microdermabrasion devicerelative to the skin surface while simultaneously delivering at leastone treatment fluid to the skin surface being treated and cooling theabraded skin surface.

According to some embodiments, heating and cooling the skin surface isperformed using a thermal conditioning handheld assembly. In oneembodiment, the thermal conditioning handheld assembly is configured tobe selectively heated or cooled conductively (e.g., using at least onethermoelectric device) within a thermal recharging station. In someembodiments, the at least one treatment fluid is delivered to the skinsurface using and through the microdermabrasion device. The methodfurther comprising exposing the skin surface to at least one additionaltreatment (e.g., exposure to a source of energy, such as,radiofrequency, ultrasound, microwave, laser, etc.).

According to some embodiments, a skin surface of a subject comprisingabrading native skin tissue of a subject using a microdermabrasiondevice, wherein using the microdermabrasion device comprises moving themicrodermabrasion device relative to the skin surface whilesimultaneously delivering at least one treatment fluid to the skinsurface being treated and exposing the skin surface to at least oneadditional treatment procedure.

According to some embodiments, the at least one additional treatmentprocedure comprises exposing the skin surface to an energy source. Inone embodiment, the energy source comprises at least one ofradiofrequency, ultrasound, microwave, laser and/or the like. In someembodiments, the at least one additional treatment procedure comprisesdelivering air to the skin surface. In some embodiments, air isdelivered to the skin surface by and through the microdermabrasiondevice. In one embodiment, the at least one additional treatmentprocedure comprises exposing the skin surface to light. In someembodiments, the at least one additional treatment procedure comprisesheating or cooling the skin surface.

According to some embodiments, a microdermabrasion device for treatingskin comprises a handpiece assembly having a distal end and a proximalend. The handpiece assembly includes at least one delivery conduit andat least one waste conduit. The microdermabrasion device additionallycomprises a tip configured to be positioned along the distal end of thehandpiece assembly, wherein the tip is adapted to contact skin surface.According to some embodiments, the microdermabrasion device furtherincludes a flow control device or feature included within the handpieceassembly to regulate the flow of fluids through the delivery conduit. Inseveral embodiments, the tip comprises a lip, a first opening in fluidcommunication with the fluid delivery conduit and a second opening influid communication with the waste conduit. In one embodiment, thedevice includes one or more abrasive elements positioned along a distalend of the tip, wherein the abrasive elements are configured toselectively remove skin as the tip is moved relative to a skin surface.In some embodiments, the first opening, the second opening and theabrasive elements of the tip are positioned within an interior of anouter periphery formed by the lip. In some embodiments, the wasteconduit is in fluid communication with a vacuum source to selectivelyremove debris away from the tip. In one embodiment, the delivery conduitis in fluid communication with the at least one waste conduit and thevacuum source when the lip contacts a skin surface. In some embodiments,the delivery conduit is configured to selectively deliver at least onetime-release material to the skin surface being treated.

According to some embodiments, the flow control device comprises a valve(e.g., a needle valve). In some embodiments, the abrasive elementcomprises a protruding member, a spiral ridge or an abrasive surface. Inother embodiments, the abrasive element comprises an abrasive disc, anabrasive surface and/or any other member that is configured to beseparated from the tip or that is configured to be permanently attachedto the tip. In one embodiment, the tip is removable from the handpieceassembly. In other embodiments, the time-release material comprises aplurality of microcapsules, capsules or other enclosures configured torelease their internal contents at various times following delivery tothe skin surface. In some embodiments, the time-release materialcomprises salicylic acid. In other embodiments, the time-releasematerial comprises one or more other active and/or non-activeingredients (e.g., azelaic acid, topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide,topical antibiotics, other anti-acne materials, saline, other dilutantsor fluids, soaps, hardening agents, gels, other binders, lotions,moisturizers, peptides, amino acids, UVA and/or UVB sunblocks, othersunblocking agents, skin tightening agents, hyaluronic acid (HA), otherhydration agents, hair removal or hair growth suppression agents,medicaments and pharmaceuticals, etc.), either alone or in combinationwith one another.

In one embodiment, the time-release material is impregnated along atleast a portion of the tip. In other embodiments, the time-releasematerial is initially contained within a cartridge or other containerthat is in fluid communication with the delivery conduit when thecartridge or other container is secured to the handpiece assembly. Inother embodiments, the time release material is delivered to the tip ofthe handpiece without any prior dilution or premixing. In someembodiments, the handpiece assembly comprises a recess configured toremovably receive a cartridge, wherein an internal content of thecartridge is placed in fluid communication with the delivery conduitwhen the cartridge is secured within the recess of the handpieceassembly. In some embodiments, the cartridge or container comprises amovable piston therein, wherein the movable piston configured to urge aninternal content of the cartridge toward an outlet of the cartridge. Insome embodiments, the cartridge or container comprises an airless pumpdesign or configuration. In one embodiment, the time-release material isconfigured to treat a skin disorder or condition (e.g., acne, oily ordry skin, etc.).

According to certain arrangements, a device for treating a skin surfaceincludes a handpiece assembly having a distal end and a proximal endsuch that the handpiece assembly comprises at least one delivery conduitand at least one waste conduit. The device additionally comprises a tipconfigured to be positioned along the distal end of the handpieceassembly, such that the tip is adapted to contact the skin surface beingtreated. According to certain embodiments, the tip comprises aperipheral lip, a first opening in fluid communication with the fluiddelivery conduit and a second opening in fluid communication with thewaste conduit and an abrasive element or surface positioned along adistal end of the tip, said abrasive element or surface configured toremove skin. In one embodiment, the first opening, the second openingand the abrasive element of the disc are positioned along an interior ofthe peripheral lip. In another arrangement, one or more waste conduitsare configured to be in fluid communication with a vacuum to selectivelyremove debris away from the tip. In other configurations, a deliveryconduit is placed in fluid communication with the waste conduit and thevacuum when the peripheral lip contacts a skin surface. In yet otherembodiments, one or more time-release materials are configured to bedelivered to the skin surface being treated.

In some embodiments, the handpiece assembly comprises a housing having aclamshell design. In one embodiment, a housing of the handpiece assemblycomprises two or more portions that are configured to removably orpermanently attach to each other (e.g., using screws, other fasteners,snap fit or friction fit connections, adhesives, welds and/or any otherconnection method or device). In some embodiments, the two or moreportions of the housing are configured to be manufactured using aninjection molding procedure or any other molding or manufacturingprocess (e.g., compression molding, thermoforming, extrusion, etc.). Inone embodiment, the two portions or more portions of the housingcomprise a plastic, metal, alloy and/or any other synthetic or naturalmaterial.

According to other embodiments, the device additionally includes a valveconfigured to control a flowrate of a fluid being delivered through thefluid delivery conduit to the tip. In another arrangement, the abrasiveelement or structure comprises one or more protruding members, spiralridges and/or abrasive surfaces. In certain embodiments, thetime-release material comprises a plurality of microcapsules or capsulesconfigured to release their internal contents at various times followingdelivery to the skin surface. In one embodiment, the time-releasematerials comprise one or more of the following: peptides, amino acids,UVA and/or UVB sunblocks, other sunblocking agents, skin tighteningagents, hyaluronic acid (HA), other hydration agents, hair removal orhair growth suppression agents, medicaments and pharmaceuticals,combinations thereof and/or any other substance. In other arrangements,time-release materials are impregnated along at least a portion of thetip. In yet other embodiments, the cartridge or other container is influid communication with the handpiece assembly. In certain embodiments,the time-release materials are configured to be released to the skinsurface after contact with water or another dilutant. In otherarrangements, the time-release materials are configured to treat acne oranother skin disorder.

According to certain embodiments of the present application, a handpieceassembly for treating a skin surface comprises a recess configured toreceive a cartridge or other container. The cartridge or other containercomprises one or more treatment materials, such as, for example, humangrowth factors, cytokines, soluble collagen, antioxidants, matrixproteins, serums, salicylic acid, other anti-acne acids and materials,microcapsules, capsules, other time-release products and substances,water (e.g., distilled, tap water, filtered, etc.), saline, otherdilutants or dissolvents, vitamins, chemical exfoliation agents,lotions, soothing agents, brightening or lightening agents, peptides,acids, anesthetics, medicants, other non-active or active compounds,other fluids or materials, combination or mixtures thereof and/or anyother substance. In one embodiment, the handpiece assembly comprises avalve or other flow control device or feature to enable a user toselectively regulate a flowrate of a treatment material through thehandpiece assembly. In other embodiments, the cartridge or othercontainer comprises an inlet configured to be in fluid communicationwith water, saline, another dilutant or dissolvent or another fluid. Thewater, saline, another dilutant or dissolvent or another fluid isconfigured to be delivered through the inlet and to an interior of thecartridge so as to mix or combine with a treatment material containedtherein. In some embodiments, the treatment material contained withinthe cartridge or container is a liquid, solid, gel, granulated materialor concentrated solution. In some embodiments, one or more treatmentfluids are conveyed from an outlet of the cartridge or container to atip attached to a distal end of the handpiece assembly.

According to certain arrangements, treatment materials that are providedto the skin interface during a dermabrasion procedure are configured tobe released or otherwise made available to a user's skin over apre-selected, relatively extended time period. Such time releasematerials can be provided in the form of microcapsules, other capsulesor enclosures and/or the like.

Regardless of the form in which they are provided (e.g., withinmicrocapsules or other enclosures), time-release products or materialscan be delivered to a skin surface directly through a cartridge or othercontainer. Such a cartridge can be positioned within a handpieceassembly, such as, for example, those illustrated in FIGS. 1-4F, 13A-16Band 18B herein. Cartridges or other containers containing suchtime-release materials can be provided in various locations of ahandpiece assembly, including, without limitation, a recess of the mainportion, underneath or near a removable tip and/or the like. In certainembodiments, a cartridge or other container containing one or moretime-release materials is separate from the handpiece assembly. Forexample, as illustrated in FIG. 18A, such a cartridge or other containercan be placed along a delivery line, which selectively supplies fluidsand/or other materials through the cartridge to a handpiece assembly. Inother arrangements, such as, for example, those illustrated in FIGS. 6B,7, 17 and 20A-23B herein, time-release materials can be provided to thehandpiece assembly from one or more upstream containers or other sourcesvia a delivery line. By way of example, in accordance with theconfiguration depicted herein in FIGS. 7 and 17, time-release and/orother products and substances can be placed within one or morecontainers of a manifold system. Such materials can be subsequentlydelivered through a handpiece assembly using one or more conduits to theskin area being treated.

In yet other arrangements, time-release materials are advantageouslyprovided, either alone or in combination with one or more othersubstances, within a recess, cavity or other opening or a tip or otherportion of a skin treatment system. For example, such recesses can beprovided along a distal surface of the tip, as illustrated in FIGS.12A-12C and discussed in greater detail herein. In certain embodiments,one or more time-release materials are embedded, impregnated, placed,stored and/or otherwise disposed on one or more surfaces or areas of thetip or other portion or component of the skin treatment system (e.g.,the foam pads of FIG. 19A-20B). Such time-release materials, which maybe provided alone or in combination with any other materials, cancomprise microcapsules, other capsules, solids, semi-solids, other driedsubstances, gels, concentrated solutions and/or the like. In somearrangements, time-release materials and/or other substances areprovided in capsules (e.g., microcapsules), caps, loose form (e.g.,positioned on or within a recess, other portion of the tip, within acartridge or other container, adhered to one or more surfaces, etc.), asa tablet, pill, disc or other dissolvable solid, saturated within a foampad or other sponge-like material and/or the like.

Regardless of where the time-release materials are positioned relativeto the handpiece assembly (e.g., within a cartridge or other container,within or outside of a handpiece assembly, in a recess or other openingof a tip or other portion of a handpiece assembly, within a foam pad, ona surface of a tip or other portion of a handpiece assembly, etc.),water (e.g., distilled, tap water, filtered, etc.), saline, otherdilutants and/or other fluids can be used to selectively dissolve,liquefy, melt, soften, dilute or otherwise prepare the time-releaseand/or any other materials. Accordingly, the desired salicylic acid,other anti-acne materials, human growth factors, cytokines, solublecollagen, antioxidants, matrix proteins, serums, water, saline, otherdilutants or dissolvents, vitamins, chemical exfoliation agents,lotions, soothing agents, brightening or lightening agents, peptides,amino acids, other acids, anesthetics, UVA and/or UVB sunblocks, othersunblocking agents, skin tightening agents, hyaluronic acid (HA), otherhydration agents, hair removal or hair growth suppression agents,medicaments and pharmaceuticals, other non-active or active compounds,other fluids or materials, combination or mixtures thereof and/or anyother substance can be advantageously provided to the skin surface beingtreated, as desired or required.

According to certain embodiments, time-release materials include one ormore active ingredients that target specific skin conditions or types.For instance, a time-release product used to help control skin acne caninclude salicylic acid. The salicylic acid can be provided alone or incombination with one or more other active and/or non-active ingredients(e.g., azelaic acid, topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, topicalantibiotics, other anti-acne materials, saline, other dilutants orfluids, soaps, hardening agents, gels, other binders, lotions,moisturizers, peptides, amino acids, UVA and/or UVB sunblocks, othersunblocking agents, skin tightening agents, hyaluronic acid (HA), otherhydration agents, hair removal or hair growth suppression agents,medicaments and pharmaceuticals, etc.).

Time-release salicylic acid capsules (e.g., microcapsules) and/or anyother active or non-active ingredients included in a skin treatmentmaterial can be encapsulated within a solid binder, such as, forexample, soap or gel. Thus, when water or another fluid is added to thematerial, the treatment material can at least partially dissolve,advantageously releasing capsules onto the skin surface. The capsulescan be configured to release their internal contents at different timeintervals after being deposited on or near a person's skin.

Alternatively, as discussed in greater detail herein, such microcapsulesor other time-release materials can be provided within a cartridge,another container, a recess or other opening and/or the like. Accordingto certain embodiments, the microcapsules or other time-releasematerials are included within a binder or are provided in loose form(e.g., as a solid, within a liquid, gel, other fluid or other medium,etc.). Thus, time-release materials can be selectively delivered to theskin (or be initially present at a tip-skin interface) in one or moredifferent forms. Regardless of the exact manner in which they areprovided to a person's skin, such time-release materials can help targetcertain skin ailments or conditions (e.g., acne, eczema, psoriasis,etc.), conditions (e.g., dry skin, oily skin, etc.) and/or the like.

In some embodiments, microcapsules and/or other time-release productsdelivered to the skin surface are configured to be released or otherwisebecome available to the skin at different times from each other. Forexample, microcapsules can be adapted to release salicylic acid and/orany other active or non-active ingredients contained therein in varioustime intervals (e.g., quarter-hour, half-hour, one-hour, two-hour,three-hour, etc.). Accordingly, the desired materials can be provided toa target skin surface to have an effect on such a surface over a longerperiod of time. This can facilitate a particular treatment procedure byeffectively prolonging the overall treatment time-period. For example,in some embodiments, an acne treatment is more effective if salicylicacid is released over a targeted skin surface during a longer timeperiod (e.g., less than 30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, 6 hours, 8hours, 10 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours, 36 hours, 48 hours, more than 48hours, etc.).

In one embodiment, time-release materials are provided to a dermabrasionsystem which is adapted to treat skin having acne or another skincondition. A handpiece assembly having an abrasive distal end, such as,for example, a tip in accordance with any of the arrangementsillustrated or otherwise disclosed herein, or equivalents thereof, canbe used to treat a skin surface of a patient. As the tip is moved acrossthe target skin area, exfoliated skin, infected waste and/or othermaterials can be advantageously removed. In addition, the treatmentsystem can be configured to selectively deposit time-release productonto the treated skin before, after and/or contemporaneously with theexfoliation process. As discussed in greater detail herein, thetime-release product can be delivered from a cartridge or othercontainer located either within a handpiece assembly or separate fromit. In some arrangements, water, saline and/or other dilutants arerequired to at least partially dissolve or otherwise release suchsubstances (e.g., from a binder, gel, solid, etc.). Salicylic acidand/or any other materials contained within the time-release product(e.g., microcapsules, other capsules, caps, etc.) and/or other materialsdelivered to the patient's skin can be advantageously released over alonger time-period so as to help prevent or reduce the likelihood ofbacterial infection, pain or discomfort, sensitivity to sunlight orother light sources and/or the like.

According to certain arrangements, time-release capsules or othermaterials containing salicylic acid and/or other skin solutions can beembedded on or near a surface of a tip using a binder. For example,glycerin soap or other base materials or hardening agents can be used tobind the time-release materials. As water, saline or other dilutants orfluids are selectively delivered to the bound materials, time-releasematerials can dissolve, allowing salicylic acid capsules to be releasedto a target area of the skin. In one configuration, the time-releasematerials comprise approximately 30% of the bound mixture by volume,while the soap or other base material and/or hardening agent comprisesthe remaining approximately 70%. In other embodiments, the volumetricratio of time-release materials to base materials and hardening agentscan be greater or less than 3:7, as required or desired (e.g., less thanapproximately 1:9, approximately 1:4, 2:3, 1:1, 3:2, 7:3, 4:1, more thanapproximately 4:1, etc.).

According to certain arrangements, a disc, plate or other member havingdiamonds or any other abrasive element is removably positioned within aninterior region of the tip (e.g., generally between the tip andadjustable distal portion or any other component of the handpieceassembly). Such a disc, which is configured to contact and abrade skinthrough one or more openings of the tip, can be conveniently removed forcleaning, replacement and/or any other purpose

According to other embodiments, a treatment material disposed on or nearthe tip of the handpiece assembly is configured to be mixed or combinedwith water, saline or another fluid being delivered through thehandpiece assembly to create a treatment fluid. In certain embodiments,the treatment material is provided as a solid, semi-solid, gel,granulated material or concentrated fluid or solution. In somearrangements, the treatment material is positioned within a recess ofthe tip, between the tip and a main body portion of the handpieceassembly or within the main body portion of the handpiece assembly. Insome embodiments, water, saline, treatment fluid or other fluid beingconveyed through the handpiece assembly is configured to be heated.

According to certain embodiments of the present application, a devicefor treating a skin surface comprises a handpiece assembly having adistal end and a proximal end. The handpiece assembly comprises at leastone delivery conduit and at least one waste conduit. The handpieceassembly further comprising a recess or other opening configured toreceive a cartridge or other container having an interior cavity. In oneembodiment, the interior cavity of the cartridge is placed in fluidcommunication with the fluid delivery conduit when the cartridge issecured within the recess. The device additionally includes a tippositioned along the distal end of the handpiece assembly, such that thetip is configured to contact the skin surface. In certain embodiments,the tip comprises a peripheral lip, a first opening in fluidcommunication with the fluid delivery conduit and a second opening influid communication with the waste conduit and an abrasive element. Thefirst opening, the second opening and the abrasive element are generallypositioned along an interior of the peripheral lip. In one embodiment,the waste conduit is configured to be in fluid communication with avacuum to selectively remove debris away from the tip. In otherarrangements, the delivery conduit is placed in fluid communication withthe waste conduit and the vacuum when the peripheral lip contacts a skinsurface.

In certain arrangements, the device further includes a valve generallypositioned between the interior cavity of the cartridge and the fluiddelivery conduit. The valve can be adapted to control the flowrate of afluid being conveyed from the interior cavity of the cartridge to thetip. In other embodiments, the handpiece assembly comprises anadjustable intermediate space positioned generally between the interiorcavity of the cartridge and the fluid delivery conduit. In onearrangement, a volume of the adjustable intermediate space can beselectively modified by moving an actuator on the handpiece assembly. Inother configurations, the handpiece assembly comprises a stem in fluidcommunication with the fluid delivery conduit. The stem can be adaptedto extend into the interior cavity of a cartridge when the cartridge ispositioned with the recess of the handpiece assembly. In otherembodiments, the tip is selectively removable from the handpieceassembly. In one arrangement, the abrasive element comprises a pluralityof posts, other protruding members, a spiral-shaped ridge, an abrasivesurface, a foam pad, another type of pad and/or the like. In somearrangements, the device further includes a heating element configuredto selectively heat a fluid being conveyed through the delivery conduit,another interior passage or conduit of the handpiece assembly, the tip,an inlet line and/or the like. In other embodiments, the cartridgecomprises an inlet configured to be placed in fluid communication with adelivery source.

According to other arrangements, a skin treatment system includes ahandpiece assembly having a distal end and a proximal end. The handpieceassembly comprises a fluid delivery conduit. In one embodiment, thehandpiece assembly comprises a first portion and a second portion, withthe first portion being selectively movable relative to the secondportion. The skin treatment system further includes a tip adapted tocontact skin and positioned on the distal end of the handpiece assembly.In one embodiment, the tip comprises a first opening, which is in fluidcommunication with the fluid delivery conduit, and an abrasive element.The system further comprises an intermediate space generally definedbetween the first and second portions of the handpiece assembly.Movement of the first portion with respect to the second portion canmodify the volume of the intermediate space and generally control theflowrate of a fluid being conveyed through the fluid delivery conduit.In some embodiments, the system further includes an actuator on thehandpiece assembly for moving the first portion relative to the secondportion.

According to other embodiments, movement of the first portion withrespect to the second portion is produced by rotating the second portionrelative to the first portion. In some arrangements, the tip isselectively removable from the second portion. In another adaptation,the tip comprises a plurality of posts or protruding members configuredto treat skin. In other arrangements, the tip comprises one or moreridges (e.g., spiral-shaped ridges), abrasive surfaces or elementsand/or other features or components configured to treat skin. In certainembodiments, the handpiece assembly further comprises a waste channel influid communication with a second opening in the tip. In anotherembodiment, the handpiece assembly includes a recessed area configuredto receive a cartridge comprising at least one treatment fluid ormaterial. In other arrangements, the cartridge includes an interiorportion which is at least partially defined by a membrane. The membranecan be configured to be pierced by a hollow spike of the first portionof the handpiece assembly when the cartridge is properly inserted withinthe recessed area, so that the hollow spike is placed in fluidcommunication with the delivery channel. In certain configurations, theinterior portion of the cartridge comprises human growth factors,cytokines, soluble collagen, antioxidants, matrix proteins, serums,salicylic acid, other anti-acne acids and materials, microcapsules,capsules, other time-release products and substances, water (e.g.,distilled, tap water, filtered, etc.), saline, other dilutants ordissolvents, vitamins, chemical exfoliation agents, lotions, soothingagents, brightening or lightening agents, peptides, acids, anesthetics,medicants, other non-active or active compounds, other fluids ormaterials, combination or mixtures thereof and/or any other substance.In other arrangements, the device comprises a heater configured toselectively heat a fluid being conveyed through the fluid deliveryconduit toward the tip.

According to certain embodiments, a method of providing a treatmentfluid to a skin surface while treating said skin surface with ahandpiece device includes providing at least one treatment material onor within a handpiece device. In one arrangement, a tip is configured tobe removably positioned along a distal end of a main body portion of thehandpiece assembly. The tip can be adapted to abrade or otherwise treatskin when moved relative to a skin surface. The treatment methodadditionally includes directing a first fluid through a delivery passageof the handpiece assembly so that said delivery passage generallycontacts at least one treatment material of the tip. In somearrangements, the treatment material is configured to at least partiallydissolve, dilute or combine with the first fluid so as to create adesired treatment fluid. Further, the treatment fluid can be configuredto be provided to the tip and to the skin surface being treated while adistal end of the tip is being translated over said skin surface.

In some arrangements, the treatment material comprises a solid, granularmaterial, gel or concentrated solution and/or any other material. Inother embodiments, the first fluid comprises water (e.g., sterile, tap,distilled, filtered, etc.), saline, other dilutants or dissolventsand/or any other fluid. In other arrangements, the treatment fluidcomprises human growth factors, cytokines, soluble collagen,antioxidants or matrix proteins. In another embodiment, the treatmentmaterial is positioned in or near the tip, such as, for example, withina post, other protruding member, other recess, underneath the tip and/orlike. In other arrangements, the treatment material comprises a disc,tablet, capsule, granular material, gel and/or the like. In oneembodiment, the treatment material is configured to be positioned withina cage or other porous container. In other arrangements, the disc,table, capsule or other treatment material is configured to be securedgenerally between the main body portion and the tip of the handpieceassembly. In one configuration, the method further includes regulating aflowrate of the first fluid by selectively controlling a valve on thehandpiece assembly. In another arrangement, the method additionallyincludes selectively heating the first fluid using a heating memberpositioned in thermal communication with the delivery passage of thehandpiece assembly. In some embodiments, the treatment material ispositioned within a cartridge which is configured to be removablysecured to a receiving area of the handpiece assembly.

According to some embodiments disclosed in the present application, adevice for treating the skin comprises a handpiece assembly having adistal end and a proximal end, a cartridge comprising an interior cavityand a tip on the distal end of the handpiece assembly. The handpieceassembly includes a fluid delivery conduit and a waste conduit. Inaddition, the cartridge is coupled to the handpiece assembly, with theinterior cavity of the cartridge being in fluid communication with thefluid delivery conduit. Further, the tip is configured to contact theskin. The tip comprises a peripheral lip, a first opening in fluidcommunication with the fluid delivery conduit, a second opening in fluidcommunication with the waste conduit and an abrasive element. The firstopening, the second opening and the abrasive element of the tip aregenerally positioned within the peripheral lip.

In some embodiments, the device further comprises a valve positionedbetween the interior cavity of the cartridge and the fluid deliveryconduit. In one embodiment, the handpiece assembly comprises anadjustable intermediate space positioned generally between the interiorcavity of the cartridge and the fluid delivery conduit. In anotherarrangement, a volume of the adjustable intermediate space can beselectively modified by moving an actuator on the handpiece assembly. Inother embodiments, the handpiece assembly comprises a recessed areaconfigured to receive the cartridge.

According to other embodiments, the handpiece assembly comprises a stemthat is in fluid communication with the fluid delivery conduit as thestem is configured to extend into the interior cavity of a cartridgewhen the cartridge is coupled to the handpiece assembly. In anotherembodiment, the tip is selectively removable from the handpieceassembly. In some arrangements, the abrasive element comprises aplurality of protruding members. In other embodiments, the tip comprisesan abrasive edge.

According to another embodiment, a system for treating the skincomprises a handpiece assembly having a distal end and a proximal endand a tip on the distal end of the handpiece assembly configured tocontact the skin. The handpiece assembly includes a fluid deliveryconduit and first and second portions. Further, the tip includes a firstopening in fluid communication with the fluid delivery conduit and anabrasive element. An intermediate space generally defined between thefirst and second portions of the handpiece assembly is in fluidcommunication with the fluid delivery conduit. In one embodiment,movement of the first portion with respect to the second portionmodifies the volume of the intermediate space to control a flowratethrough the fluid delivery conduit. The system further comprises anactuator on the handpiece assembly for actuating movement between thefirst portion and the second portion.

In some embodiments, movement of the first portion with respect to thesecond portion is produced by rotating the second portion relative tothe first portion. In other embodiments, the tip is selectivelyremovable from the second portion. In still other arrangements, the tipcomprises a plurality of protruding members configured to treat skin. Inanother embodiment, the tip comprises an abrasive surface configured totreat skin.

According to some embodiments, the handpiece assembly further comprisesa waste channel in fluid communication with a second opening in the tip.In another arrangement, the handpiece assembly includes a recessed areaconfigured to receive a cartridge comprising at least one treatmentfluid or material. In other embodiments, the cartridge includes aninterior portion at least partially defined by a membrane. The membraneis configured to be pierced by a hollow spike of the first portion ofthe handpiece assembly. Further, the hollow spike is in fluidcommunication with the delivery channel. In one embodiment, the interiorportion of the cartridge comprises human growth factors, cytokines,soluble collagen, antioxidants and/or matrix proteins.

According to other embodiments, the present application discloses amethod for treating the skin of a patient with a skin treatment devicehaving a working end that includes an abrading structure configured toengage and abrade skin. The method includes placing the working end ofthe skin treatment device against the skin of the patient, translatingthe working end over the skin to abrade a skin surface, providing atreatment fluid to the skin through an opening in the working end andaspirating skin debris from the skin surface through an aspirationopening in the working end of the skin treatment device. In someembodiments, the treatment fluid comprises human growth factors,cytokines, soluble collagen, antioxidants and/or matrix proteins.

According to some embodiments disclosed in the present application, adevice for treating the skin comprises a handpiece assembly having adistal end and a proximal end. The handpiece assembly includes a fluiddelivery conduit and a waste conduit. In addition, the handpieceassembly is adapted to receive a cartridge having an interior cavity.Further, the device includes a tip attached to the distal end of thehandpiece assembly and comprising a surface configured to treat skin.The waste conduit is configured to be in fluid communication with avacuum source and the fluid delivery conduit is configured to be influid communication with an interior cavity of a cartridge when acartridge is secured to the handpiece assembly.

In some embodiments, the handpiece assembly comprises a flow controlfeature configured to selectively regulate a flowrate through the fluiddelivery conduit. In another arrangement, the handpiece assemblyincludes a main body portion and an adjustable portion attached to themain body portion. The flow control feature can comprise an adjustableintermediate space generally located between the main body portion andthe adjustable portion. In other embodiments, a volume of the adjustableintermediate space can be selectively modified by moving the main bodyportion relative to the adjustable portion of the handpiece assembly.

In one embodiment, the handpiece assembly comprises a recessed areaconfigured to secure a cartridge. In another arrangement, the handpieceassembly comprises a stem adapted to access an interior cavity of acartridge when a cartridge is secured to the handpiece assembly.According to some embodiments, the tip is selectively removable from thehandpiece assembly. In other embodiments, the tip comprises a pluralityof protruding members configured to treat skin. In still otherarrangements, the tip comprises an abrasive surface configured to treatskin.

According to another embodiment, a system for treating the skin includesa handpiece assembly. The handpiece assembly comprises a tip configuredto treat skin, a first portion and a second portion. The first portionincludes a delivery conduit, which has a first longitudinal axis, and isconfigured to be in fluid communication with at least one fluid source.Further, the second portion includes a distal end and a proximal end,with the proximal end being attached to the main body portion and thedistal end being attached to the tip. The second portion includes adelivery channel having a second longitudinal axis and being in fluidcommunication with the tip and the delivery conduit. In addition, thesecond portion further comprises a removal channel being in fluidcommunication with the tip and a suction source. In some embodiments, anintermediate space is generally defined between the first and secondportions of the handpiece assembly. Such an intermediate space is influid communication with the delivery conduit of the first portion andthe delivery channel of the second portion. Further, a volume of theintermediate space is configured to be adjusted by selectively modifyinga separation distance between the first portion and the second portion.Accordingly, a flowrate from a fluid source to the tip can beselectively controlled by modifying the separation distance between thefirst portion and the second portion.

In some embodiments, the separation distance between the first portionand the second portion is modified by rotating the second portionrelative to the first portion. In other arrangements, the firstlongitudinal axis of the delivery conduit is generally offset with thesecond longitudinal axis of the delivery channel. In one embodiment, thetip is selectively removable from the second portion.

According to some embodiments, the tip comprises a plurality ofprotruding members configured to treat skin. In other embodiments, thetip comprises an abrasive surface configured to treat skin. In oneembodiment, the first portion further comprises a waste channel in fluidcommunication with the removal channel of the second portion. In anotherarrangement, the first portion includes a recessed area configured toreceive a cartridge comprising at least one treatment fluid or material.In some embodiments, the cartridge includes an interior portion at leastpartially defined by a membrane which is configured to be pierced by ahollow spike of the first portion of the handpiece assembly. The hollowspike is in fluid communication with the delivery channel. According toother embodiments, the cartridge the interior portion of the cartridgecomprises human growth factors, cytokines, soluble collagen,antioxidants or matrix proteins.

According to other embodiments disclosed in the present application, amethod of treating the skin comprises providing a handpiece assemblycomprising a body and a tip having a distal end. The handpiece assemblyincludes a delivery conduit and a waste conduit that are in fluidcommunication with the distal end of the tip. The method furtherincludes placing the delivery conduit of the handpiece assembly in fluidcommunication with a fluid source for providing at least one treatmentfluid to the distal end of the tip and placing the waste conduit of thehandpiece assembly in fluid communication with a suction source forremoving waste materials from the distal end of the tip. In addition,the method comprises moving the handpiece assembly along a person's skinand activating the suction source to remove a volume of waste materialsfrom the distal end of the tip and to simultaneously deliver a volume ofthe treatment fluid to the distal end of the tip. In one embodiment, theflowrate at which treatment fluids and/or other materials are deliveredto the tip can be varied by a valve or other flow control feature of thehandpiece assembly. In some embodiments, the treatment fluid compriseshuman growth factors, cytokines, soluble collagen, antioxidants, matrixproteins, serums, salicylic acid, other anti-acne acids and materials,microcapsules, capsules, other time-release products and substances,water (e.g., distilled, tap water, filtered, etc.), saline, otherdilutants or dissolvents, vitamins, chemical exfoliation agents,lotions, soothing agents, brightening or lightening agents (e.g., kojicacid), peptides, acids, anesthetics, medicants, other non-active oractive compounds, other fluids or materials, combination or mixturesthereof and/or any other substance.

According to some embodiments disclosed in the present application, adevice for treating the skin comprises a handpiece assembly having adistal end and a proximal end. The handpiece assembly further comprisesa main body portion and a tip on the distal end of the main bodyportion. In some embodiments, the handpiece assembly includes one ormore fluid delivery conduits, one or more waste conduits and/or one ormore energy conduits. In some embodiments, the handpiece assemblycomprises a cartridge comprising an inner cavity. In addition, thecartridge is coupled to the handpiece assembly with the inner cavity ofthe cartridge being in fluid communication with the fluid deliveryconduit. In some embodiments, the main body portion comprises aninterior volume in which one or more of the conduits can be located.Further, the tip is configured to contact the skin.

In some embodiments, the tip is configured to be removable from the mainbody portion. In some embodiments, the main body portion and tip are asingle unitary piece. The tip comprises a plurality of needles, a basemember, and a peripheral lip, ridge, outer peripheral member or the likeand. The tip can also comprise one or more openings in fluidcommunication with a waste conduit, one or more openings incommunication with a fluid delivery conduit and/or one or more energycontact points in electrical communication with an energy source. Insome embodiments the tip comprises one or more hollow needles, thehollow needles in fluid communication with a fluid delivery conduit. Insome embodiments, one or more of the needles in the tip is in electricalcommunication with an energy conduit. In some embodiments, the handpieceassembly includes a source of pressure (e.g. pneumatic pressure)configured to move the plurality of needles and/or the base member withrespect to the peripheral lip of the tip.

According to some embodiments disclosed in the present application, amethod of treating the skin includes providing a handpiece assemblycomprising a body and a tip having a distal end. The handpiece assemblyincludes a waste conduit and a fluid delivery conduit that are in fluidcommunication with the distal end of the tip. The tip comprises aperipheral lip and a plurality of needles. The method further includesplacing the delivery conduit of the handpiece assembly in fluidcommunication with a fluid source for delivering at least one treatmentfluid to the distal end of the tip and placing the waste conduit of thehandpiece assembly in fluid communication with a suction source forremoving waste materials from the distal end of the tip. In addition,the method comprises placing the peripheral lip the tip in contact witha person's skin. The method further comprises activating the suctionsource and causing the plurality of needles to penetrate the person'sskin. The method also comprises delivering a treatment fluid to thedistal end of the tip. In some embodiments, the treatment fluidcomprises human growth factors, cytokines, soluble collagen,antioxidants, matrix proteins, serums, water, saline and/or any otherfluids or materials, either alone or in combination.

According to other embodiments disclosed in the present application, amethod of treating the skin comprises providing a handpiece assemblycomprising a body and a tip having a distal end. The tip comprises aperipheral lip and a plurality of hollow needles. The handpiece assemblyincludes a waste conduit in fluid communication with the distal end ofthe tip and a delivery conduit in communication with the plurality ofhollow needles. In addition, the method comprises placing the peripherallip of the tip in contact with a person's skin. The method furthercomprises activating the suction source and causing the plurality ofneedles to penetrate the person's skin. The method also comprisesdelivering a treatment fluid to the plurality of hollow needles. In someembodiments, the treatment fluid comprises human growth factors,cytokines, soluble collagen, antioxidants, matrix proteins, serums,water, saline, dermal fillers, hot or cold vapors and/or gases and/orany other fluids or materials, either alone or in combination.

According to other embodiments disclosed in the present application, amethod of treating the skin comprises providing a handpiece assemblycomprising a body and a tip having a distal end. The tip comprises aperipheral lip and a plurality of needles. The handpiece assemblyincludes a waste conduit in fluid communication with the distal end ofthe tip and an energy conduit in communication with the plurality ofneedles. In addition, the method comprises placing the peripheral lipthe tip in contact with a person's skin. The method further comprisesactivating the suction source and causing the plurality of needles topenetrate the person's skin. The method also comprises delivering energyto the plurality of needles, thus causing damage to the skin. In someembodiments, the energy source comprises radio frequency (e.g. RFenergy), ultrasound, and/or microwave energy.

According to the embodiments disclosed in the present application, amethod of treating the skin can further include using pneumatic or otherappropriate force to move the plurality of needles and/or the basemember with respect to the peripheral lip of the tip. The plurality ofneedles and/or the base member can be moved in this manner to apredetermined depth in the patient's skin. According to the embodimentsdisclosed in the present application, the methods of using needles totreat the skin as described above can be utilized in conjunction withother microdermabrasion treatments. The use of needles could occurbefore, during, after or in lieu of other microdermabrasion treatments.

The methods summarized above and set forth in further detail belowdescribe certain actions taken by a user (e.g., a professional in someinstances); however, it should be understood that they can also includethe instruction of those actions by another party. Thus, actions such as“moving a handpiece” or “delivering a fluid” include “instructing movinga handpiece” and “instructing delivering a fluid.”

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the presentapplication are described with reference to drawings of certainembodiments, which are intended to illustrate, but not to limit, thepresent inventions. It is to be understood that these drawings are forthe purpose of illustrating the various concepts disclosed herein andmay not be to scale.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a handpiece assembly configuredfor use with a skin treatment system according to one embodiment;

FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the handpiece assembly ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 3 schematically illustrates a handpiece assembly being in fluidcommunication with a fluid delivery system or manifold system accordingto one embodiment;

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a handpieceassembly of a skin treatment device configured to deliver air to thetip;

FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate various views of the handpiece assembly of FIG.4;

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate two different embodiments of a light wanddevice configured for use with a skin treatment system;

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate a station for a skin thermal conditioningsystem according to one embodiment;

FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate different views of a thermal conditioninghandheld assembly configured for use with the station of FIG. 7Aaccording to one embodiment;

FIG. 8C illustrates a thermal conditioning handheld assembly configuredfor use with the station of FIG. 7A according to another embodiment;

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a manifoldsystem configured for use in a skin treatment system;

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a bottleconfigured for placement within the manifold system of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 illustrates the bottle of FIG. 10 comprising automaticidentifiers according to one embodiment;

FIG. 12 illustrates a vial configured for placement within a handheldassembly of a skin treatment system according to one embodiment;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the main body portionand tip assembly, as well as additional embodiments of the tip;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the main body portionand tip assembly showing a fluid delivery conduit positioned within arecess in the main body portion;

FIG. 15 is a close-up perspective view of an embodiment of the tip;

FIG. 16 is a cross-section view of an embodiment of the tip alongcutting plane A-A of FIG. 15 showing a tip having multiple openings influid communication with a suction conduit;

FIG. 16A is a cross-section view of an embodiment of the tip alongcutting plane A-A of FIG. 15 showing tip having one opening in fluidcommunication with a suction conduit;

FIG. 17 is the same view from FIG. 16 where the needles are penetratingthe skin of a patient;

FIG. 18 is a cross-section view of an embodiment of the tip alongcutting plane A-A of FIG. 15 showing hollow needles in fluidcommunication with a fluid delivery conduit;

FIG. 18A is the same view as FIG. 18 showing a single fluid deliveryconduit in fluid communication with the hollow needles;

FIG. 19 is the same view from FIG. 18 where the needles are penetratingthe skin of a patient;

FIG. 20 is a cross-section view of an embodiment of the tip alongcutting plane A-A of FIG. 15 showing the needles penetrating the skin ofa patient and showing the needles emitting energy to the skin;

FIG. 21 is a cross-section view of an embodiment of the tip alongcutting plane A-A of FIG. 15 showing a movable interior tip portion intwo positions with respect to the peripheral lip of the tip;

FIGS. 22A-22E illustrate various views of a skin treatment systemcomprising air pulsing, according to one embodiment; and

FIGS. 23A-23E illustrate various views of a skin treatment systemcomprising air pulsing and needle penetration, according to oneembodiment

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Although the various embodiments of a handpiece assembly have specificrelevance to a skin treatment system, the features, advantages and othercharacteristics disclosed herein may have direct or indirectapplicability in other applications, such as, for example, medicaldevices, mechanical devices and/or the like.

FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a handpiece assembly 100 configuredfor use with a skin treatment system. As shown in FIG. 1, a handpieceassembly 100 can include a main body portion 110 configured to receive atip 130 along its distal end 120. In some embodiments, the tip 130 isremovably attached to the distal end of the main body portion 110.Alternatively, however, the tip can be permanently attached to the mainbody portion 110, as desired or required. The tip can include one ormore abrasive features, surfaces and/or the like that are configured toselectively abrade skin when the handpiece assembly 100 is movedrelative to a subject's skin. Therefore, the tip can be configured toconduct the microdermabrasion of the targeted skin surface. Additionaldetails regarding possible tip options that can be incorporated into anyof the embodiments disclosed herein are provided in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 11/392,348, filed on Mar. 29, 2006 and issued asU.S. Pat. No. 8,048,089 on Nov. 1, 2011, the entirety of which isincorporated by reference herein and made a part of the presentapplication.

With continued reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the handpiece assembly 100can be sized, shaped and otherwise configured to receive one or morevials or cartridges 200. For example, as shown, the handpiece assemblycan include a recess or other opening into which a vial 200 can beplaced and secured. Such vials or other containers 200 can include oneor more fluids and/or other materials that can be selectively deliveredto the subject's skin surface during use.

In some embodiments, the vial or cartridge 200 comprises one or more ofthe following: skin tightening agents, platelet-rich plasma (PRP),exfoliation agents, peptides, bleaching agents, anti-acne agents, humangrowth factors, cytokines, soluble collagen, antioxidants, matrixproteins, serums, salicylic acid, other anti-acne acids and materials,microcapsules, capsules, other time-release products and substances(e.g., capsules, microcapsules, etc.), water (e.g., distilled, tapwater, filtered, etc.), saline, other dilutants or dissolvents,vitamins, chemical exfoliation agents, lotions, soothing agents,brightening or lightening agents (e.g., kojic acid), numbing agents,peptides, acids, anesthetics (e.g., Lidocaine), medicants, othernon-active or active compounds, other fluids or materials, combinationor mixtures thereof and/or any other substance. Such materials containedin the vial 200 can be selectively delivered to a user's skin while thehandpiece assembly 100 is being used. In some embodiments, the handpieceassembly 100 includes an adjustable valve or other flow control featureto enable a user to regulate the rate of delivery of such fluids orother materials to the treatment surface.

In some embodiments, one or more materials can be strategicallyembedded, impregnated, placed, stored and/or otherwise disposed on oneor more surfaces or areas of the tip or other portion or component ofthe skin treatment system. Such materials can comprise solids,semi-solids, other dried substances, gels, concentrated solutions and/orthe like. For example, such materials can be provided in loose form(e.g., positioned on or within a recess, other portion of the tip,within a cartridge or other container, adhered to one or more surfaces,etc.), as a tablet, capsule, pill, disc or other dissolvable solid,saturated within a foam pad or other sponge-like material and/or thelike. Thus, in certain arrangements, water (e.g., distilled, tap water,filtered, etc.), saline, other dilutants and/or other fluids which aredelivered to the tip can selectively dissolve, liquefy, melt, soften,dilute or otherwise prepare the materials embedded, impregnated and/orotherwise positioned on the tip, within a cartridge or other containerand/or on or within another portion or component of a skin treatmentsystem (e.g., handpiece assembly, fluid line upstream of the handpieceassembly, etc.). Accordingly, the desired human growth factors,cytokines, soluble collagen, antioxidants, matrix proteins, serums,salicylic acid, other anti-acne acids and materials, microcapsules,capsules, other time-release products and substances, peptides, aminoacids, UVA and/or UVB sunblocks, other sunblocking agents, skintightening agents, hyaluronic acid (HA), other hydration agents, hairremoval or hair growth suppression agents, medicaments andpharmaceuticals, water, saline, other dilutants or dissolvents,vitamins, chemical exfoliation agents, lotions, soothing agents, skinbrightening or lightening agents, other acids, anesthetics, medicants,other non-active or active compounds, other fluids or materials,combination or mixtures thereof and/or any other substance can beadvantageously provided to the skin surface being treated, as desired orrequired.

In addition, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the handpiece assembly 100 can beconnected to a vacuum. For example, the waste conduit 180 of thehandpiece assembly can be placed in fluid communication with a suctionor vacuum source (not shown) in order to remove exfoliated skin, spentfluids, waste materials and/or other substances away from the treatmentsurface. As noted above, the handpiece assembly 100 can be configured toreceive one or more removable tips 130, which may be selected based uponthe specific procedure being performed, the desired result and/or anyother considerations. The distal portion 120 of the handpiece assembly100 can include one or more O-rings 138 or other sealing members toprevent undesirable leaks between the main body portion 110 and the tip130. Additional details regarding removable tips are provided in U.S.patent application Ser. No. 12/832,663, filed on Jul. 8, 2010 andpublished as U.S. Publ. No. 2011/0082415 on Apr. 7, 2011, the entiretyof which is hereby incorporated by reference herein (see, for exampleand without limitation, FIGS. 5B and 8A through 16B of the referencedapplication).

With continued reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the handpiece assembly 100can be configured to receive one or more types of vials or cartridges200. For example, a vial 200 can include, without limitation, a standardor non-standard vial, ampoule or any other container. In someembodiments, serums, salicylic acid, other anti-acne acids andmaterials, microcapsules, capsules, other time-release products andsubstances, other fluids and/or other materials contained within thecartridge 200 can be drawn toward the tip 130 using one or more suctionsources (e.g., the vacuum source configured to remove waste materialsfrom the tip). In other embodiments, the fluids and/or other materialscontained within the cartridge gravity flow toward the tip 130 or areconveyed with the help of a fluid transfer device. The cartridge 200 canbe selectively removed from the handpiece assembly 100 when a desiredvolume or other amount of serum or other material has been delivered tothe tip 130.

In other arrangements, two or more different cartridges 200 can be usedduring a skin treatment procedure. For example, a particular proceduremay require the contents (e.g., skin tightening agents, platelet-richplasma (PRP), exfoliation agents, peptides, bleaching agents, anti-acneagents, human growth factors, serums, salicylic acid, other anti-acneacids and materials, microcapsules, capsules, other time-releaseproducts and substances, proteins, brightening or lightening agents,peptides, other fluids or substances, etc.) of two or more differentcartridges 200. Thus, a user can load and/or unload a combination ofcartridges 200 or other containers within a handpiece assembly 100during a treatment procedure, either at the same time or sequentially(e.g., one after another).

According to some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 2, a vial orcartridge 200 can include an internal piston 210 or other movablemember. In some embodiments, the piston 210 can urge the internalcontents of the vial 200 (e.g., serum, other treatment fluids ormaterials, etc.) toward the distal end of the vial. The use of such anairless pump design can eliminate or reduce the likelihood that air orother gases will interfere with the consistent delivery of such fluidsand/or other materials to the handpiece assembly. Such an airless pumpconfiguration can be used in any of the embodiments disclosed herein.

In such embodiments, the internal volume of the cartridge or vialcontaining the fluid and/or other material to be selectively deliveredto the handpiece assembly can be reduced as fluid and/or other materialis expelled from the cartridge. This can help ensure that the internalportion of the cartridge that contains the serum, other liquid and/orother material to be delivered to the handpiece assembly does notinclude air or other gases. Thus, the treatment media can beconsistently and reliably maintained at the distal end of the cartridgeinterior (e.g., toward the cartridge outlet) during a treatmentprocedure, regardless if and how a user tilts or otherwise maneuvers thehandpiece assembly.

The vial or cartridge 200 can include a main cylindrical portion and anozzle portion. In some arrangements, the nozzle portion comprises aseptum, membrane or other member that can be pierced, punctured orotherwise compromised to access the interior contents of the vial 200(e.g., serum, other liquids or materials, etc.). The septum can includeone or more flexible, rigid and/or semi-rigid materials, such as, forexample, rubber, plastic, paper and/or the like.

In some embodiments, a vial or other fluid container 200 can be sized,shaped and otherwise configured to snugly or generally snugly fit withinthe main body portion 110 of the handpiece assembly 100. Therefore, insome arrangements, the vial or cartridge 200 is secured to the handpieceassembly 100 by friction or by the generally tight tolerances of therecess of the handpiece assembly.

As noted above, the waste conduit 180 (e.g., flexible tubing, hose,etc.) to which the handpiece assembly 100 connects is in fluidcommunication with a vacuum or other suction source (e.g., pump, otherfluid transfer device, etc.). Thus, exfoliated skin, spent fluids and/orother waste materials can be transported away from the tip 130 to acanister (not shown) or other waste source. The rate of transfer of suchwaste materials can depend on one or more factors, such as, for example,the setting of the vacuum or suction source, the characteristics (e.g.,diameter, length, smoothness, etc.) of the various conduits or channelsthrough which the waste materials are conveyed, the viscosity, densityand other fluid properties of the waste materials and/or the like.

As discussed herein, in some embodiments, the flow of serums, otherfluids and/or any other materials from a vial or cartridge 200 or othersource through the handpiece assembly 100 can be regulated by the userusing one or more valves or other flow control devices or features.

In some embodiments, a vacuum in fluid communication with the wasteconduit 180 can be configured to remove waste materials from the tip 130and help deliver serums, other fluids and/or any other materials fromthe vial or cartridge 200 to the tip 130. When the tip 130 is positionedagainst the subject's skin, suction created by the vacuum source can betransmitted to one or more fluid channels or conduits of the handpieceassembly 100. Such a suction force created within the correspondingchannels or conduits of the handpiece assembly can remain intact as longas the tip 130 is maintained against or substantially against thesubject's skin. Consequently, the suction force created by the vacuumsource can be transferred to one or more fluid delivery channels of theassembly 100, thereby transferring fluids and/or other materials fromthe vial or other container toward the tip 130.

In some embodiments, serums, other fluids and/or other materials can bedelivered to the tip 130 (e.g., from a cartridge, an external source,etc.) through one or more peripheral or other non-centrally locatedchannels, conduits and/or other lines or fittings. For instance, in thehandpiece assembly 100 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, such fluids and/orother materials can be routed through one or more internal channels ofthe assembly and/or waste conduits of the tip. Thus, in someembodiments, one or more of the channels, connectors and/or otherhydraulic components may need to be reconfigured to adequately place thenon-centrally located delivery openings of the tip in fluidcommunication with corresponding delivery lines of the handpieceassembly 100.

According to certain embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 3, a vial,cartridge or other container 200 is placed in fluid communication with amanifold system 400 that may comprise a plurality of individual fluidconduits 410, 420, 430, 440. In turn, one or more of these fluidconduits 410, 420, 430, 440 can be in fluid communication with aseparate container (not shown). For example, in some embodiments, suchfluid conduits can be in fluid communication with containers of a towersystem (see, e.g., FIGS. 9-11). In the illustrated embodiment, theindividual fluid lines 410, 420, 430, 440 are in fluid communicationwith a main fluid conduit 450, which connects to a nozzle 202 along aproximal end of a vial or other container 200 secured within thehandpiece assembly 100. One or more of the fluid conduits can comprise avalve 412, 422, 432, 442 or other flow control device or feature toselectively regulate the transfer of fluids and/or other materials tothe handpiece assembly 100. In the illustrated arrangement, the manifoldsystem 400 comprises a total of four fluid branches. However, a systemcan comprise more or fewer fluid branches (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8,more than 8, etc.), as desired or required by a particular applicationor use.

According to certain embodiments, one or more of the fluid lines fluidconduits of the manifold system illustrated in FIG. 3 are configured toprovide a serum, other treatment fluid and/or the like. Alternatively,however, one or more of the conduits can be configured to receive water(e.g., distilled, tap water, filtered, etc.), saline, other dilutants ordissolvents, other fluids and/or the like to the handpiece assembly 100.As discussed in greater detail herein, such fluids can be adapted tocontact and dissolve, dilute, liquefy, soften and/or otherwise mix withone or more solids, gels and/or other materials positioned within or onvarious surfaces or portions of the handpiece assembly 100 (e.g., tip).This can provide a convenient method of providing one or more materialsat the skin-tip interface and/or any other location where such materialsare desired or required.

In some embodiments, the vials, cartridges, bottles (e.g., used intowers or other manifold-systems) and/or other fluid sources can includeany combination of skin tightening agents, platelet-rich plasma (PRP),exfoliation agents, peptides, bleaching agents, anti-acne agents, humangrowth factors, serums, salicylic acid, other anti-acne acids andmaterials, microcapsules, capsules, other time-release products andsubstances, human growth factors, cytokines, collagen, brightening orlightening agents, peptides, peeling agents, acids, antioxidants, matrixproteins, saline, water (e.g., distilled, tap water, filtered, etc.)and/or other liquids or substances, as desired or required by aparticular application or use. In certain embodiments, a treatmentprotocol may require the use of one, two or more different cartridgesfor a specific procedure. Thus, vials or cartridges 200 can be removedfrom or inserted into a handpiece assembly prior to or during aparticular procedure. Alternatively, when a manifold system is beingused to supply fluids to the handpiece assembly, one or more valves canbe actuated (e.g., manually or automatically) to enable the desiredfluid and/or other substance to be in fluid communication with thehandpiece assembly.

In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, a cartridge or vial 200 or aseparate bottle contained within a manifold system can advantageouslypermit a user to deliver skin tightening agents, platelet-rich plasma(PRP), exfoliation agents, peptides, bleaching agents, anti-acne agents,human growth factors, cytokines, soluble collagen, antioxidants, matrixproteins, serums, salicylic acid, other anti-acne acids and materials,microcapsules, capsules, other time-release products and substances,water (e.g., distilled, tap water, filtered, etc.), saline, otherdilutants or dissolvents, vitamins, chemical exfoliation agents,lotions, soothing agents, brightening or lightening agents, peptides,peeling agents, acids, anesthetics, medicants, other non-active oractive compounds, other fluids or materials, combination or mixturesthereof and/or any other substance to a handpiece assembly from one ormore external fluid sources. For example, in some embodiments, theconduit 450 can be placed in fluid communication with one or morecontainers. Such containers can comprise the desired serums, salicylicacid, other anti-acne acids and materials, microcapsules, capsules,other time-release products and substances, human growth factors,cytokines, collagen, antioxidants, matrix proteins, brightening orlightening agents, peptides, peeling agents, acids, medicants, otherfluids or substances, combinations thereof and/or the like, as desiredor required by a particular treatment. Thus, the handpiece assembly 100(e.g., the vial or container 200 of the handpiece assembly) can be usedas an interface between the handpiece assembly and a relatively largersource of treatment media. For example, a handpiece assembly 100 can beadvantageously placed in fluid communication with a multi-containersystem such as the one disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No.11/392,348, filed on Mar. 29, 2006 and published on Jul. 5, 2007 as U.S.Publication 2007/0156124, the entirety of which is hereby incorporatedby reference herein.

According to certain arrangements, a cartridge 400 includes one or moresolids, granular materials, gels, concentrated fluids and/or othersubstances that are adapted to dissolve, dilute, soften or otherwise mixwhen contacted by water, saline, other dilutants or dissolvents and/orother fluids. Thus, such materials or other substances can be placedwithin the cartridge 400 in one or more forms, such as, for example, aspowder, granular material, a tablet, a capsule, a pill, otherdissolvable solid, a concentrated solution, a gel and/or the like. Inother embodiments, such solids, gels and/or other materials can besituated on the tip or other portion of the system (e.g., within a postor recess, adhered to one or more other exposed or hidden surfaces,within a removable cartridge upstream of the handpiece assembly, etc.),impregnated into a foam pad or other member and/or at any otherlocation. Regardless of their exact composition, location and/or otherdetails, such materials and/or other substances can be configured todissolve, dilute and/or otherwise mix with water, saline and/or otherfluids being conveyed through the handpiece assembly 100.

Improved Fluid Penetration and Other Beneficial Effects DuringProcedures

According to some embodiments, the effectiveness of performing amicrodermabrasion procedure can be improved by the delivery of energy,light or air (or other fluid), the delivery of mechanical energy (e.g.,acoustic energy, needle penetrations, etc.), the transfer of heat (e.g.,to and/or from the skin) and/or the like. This can be conductedconcurrently with a microdermabrasion procedure and/or before or after amicrodermabrasion as desired or required. In some embodiments, forexample, the delivery of energy (e.g., radiofrequency or RF, ultrasound,microwave, etc.), laser, light and/or the like to the skin surface canassist with one or more aspects of the skin treatment process (e.g., itseffectiveness, the final result, etc.), healing and recovery. Forexample, in some embodiments, the application of such ancillarytreatments or modalities can improve skin texture and look. In someembodiments, recovery time following a microdermabrasion and/or otherskin treatment procedure can be reduced. The application of suchtreatments or items can also assist with the penetration of the variousserums, other liquids and/or other substances used in connection with askin treatment procedure (e.g., via fluid delivery from a vial ormanifold to the tip of the handpiece assembly). The application ofenergy, mechanical disruption, transfer of heat to or from the skinand/or any other ancillary steps or processes can be used when themicrodermabrasion system is being used with or without concurrent (e.g.,continuous or intermittent) fluid delivery.

In some embodiments, a handpiece assembly and/or another aspect of amicrodermabrasion system is configured to selectively deliver energy,heat (e.g., to or from the skin), air or other fluid, mechanicaldisruption, light and/or the like to the subject's skin. For example, ahandpiece assembly can comprise one or more radiofrequency (RF)electrodes, ultrasound transducers, light, laser or microwave emittersand/or the like. Further, as discussed in greater detail herein, ahandpiece assembly can include one or more lumens or passages that areconfigured to deliver air or other fluids (e.g., continuously,intermittently at a particular time frequency, etc.) to the skin. Inother embodiments, however, the delivery of such energy and/or otheritems is performed using a separate device or system (e.g., a dedicatedenergy emitter unit, a dedicated fluid pump, etc.).

Air or Other Fluid Delivery

In some embodiments, it may be beneficial to provide air or other fluidto the skin surface being treated. The air can be delivered at aparticular flowrate, pressure, intensity, pulsing rate or frequencyand/or time duration to help achieve a particular effect on the skinsurface. For example, air or other fluid can be pulsed onto the skinduring, before and/or after a microdermabrasion procedure to promote andfacilitate the transfer of serums, other liquids and/or other materialsat least partially into the subject's skin tissue after exfoliation. Insome embodiments, air pulsing can comprise square wave pulsing (e.g.,having sequential air delivery and no air delivery phases, one afteranother, etc.).

In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, air pulsing can compriseproviding air (e.g., puffs) to the skin surface being treated inaccordance with a particular frequency, air flowrate, pressure,intensity and/or the like. For example, is some embodiments, thedelivery of air or another gas is provided to the skin between in apulsed manner. In some embodiments, the pulsing of air can includesequentially switching the delivery of air between a first (higher)pressure and a second (lower) pressure. In some embodiments, both thefirst and second pressures are positive pressures (e.g., relative toatmospheric). However, in other embodiments, the first (higher) pressureis positive (e.g., relative to atmospheric), while the second (lower)pressure is zero (e.g., no air delivery at all) or a negative pressure(e.g., suction or vacuum), as desired or required.

FIG. 4 illustrates one embodiment of a handpiece assembly 100Aconfigured to abrade and/or otherwise treat skin while selectivelydelivering air (e.g., pulsed air) to the skin surface being treated. Asshown, the handpiece assembly 100A can include a main body portion 110Aand a distal tip 130A along its distal end 120A. As with otherembodiments disclosed herein, the tip 130A can include a peripheral lipor ridge 132A that is configured to engage the subject's skin duringuse. The tip 130A can comprise one or more skin abrading members,features or portions 136A. Such abrading structures 136A can compriseone or more shapes, designs and the like. For example, in the depictedarrangement, a total of six abrading members 136A are oriented in agenerally radial pattern. However, in other embodiments, more or fewerabrading members or structures can be used. For example, in someembodiments, the tip 130A does not include any abrading members. Thus,in such a configuration, the assembly 100A is configured to simplyprovide pulsed air to the skin of the subject, either alone or incombination with the delivery of one or more fluids and/or othermaterials. In some embodiments, one or more abrading members orstructures included along the tip 130A can vary in type (e.g., posts,abrasive surfaces, ridges, etc.), pattern or layout (e.g., spiral,circular, oval, irregular, etc.), height or other dimensions and/or thelike, as desired or required.

With continued reference to FIGS. 4 and 5A-5C, the handpiece assembly100A can include one or more passages or conduits that extend to or nearthe tip 130A. For example, as shown, the assembly can include a fluiddelivery passage 122A that selectively delivers serums, other liquidsand/or other substances to the working surface of the assembly (e.g.,from a vial or cartridge secured to the handpiece assembly, from aconduit in fluid communication with a separate tower or manifold systemand/or the like). The assembly 100A can also include a vacuum (e.g.,negative pressure) or suction passage 126A that is configured to removespent serums and/or other fluids, together with abraded skin and otherdebris, when the system is in use and the vacuum source is activated.Additional fluid delivery and/or waste conduit and/or openings can beincluded in an assembly.

In some embodiments, the handpiece assembly 100A can include one or moreair delivery passages 124A that are configured to continuously orintermittently deliver air and/or other fluid to the tip 130A. Asillustrated in FIG. 5C, such an air passage 124A can be located along ornear the radial center of the assembly and can daylight within aninterior lip or ridge 128A along the distal tip. As also shown in thelongitudinal sectional view of FIG. 5C, the diameter of the air deliverypassage 124A can be decreased or otherwise changed at or near the distaltip 130A. For example, such a narrowing in the diameter can help deliverthe air or other fluid at a desired flowrate, velocity and/or pressure.

If, during use, the vacuum source is activated and peripheral lip 132Aof the tip 130A is in contact with the subject's skin, the suctionpassage 126A can create a negative pressure along the distal tip (e.g.,along the interior of the peripheral lip), thereby drawing one or moretreatment serums or fluids to the tip 130A (e.g., via the fluid deliverypassage 122A). Further, in some embodiments, the application of anegative pressure along the tip 130A of the assembly 100A can help drawthe subject's skin in contact with the interior lip or ridge 128A.Consequently, in certain embodiments, only the region along the tipbetween the peripheral lip 132A and the interior lip 128A may besubjected to the suction created by the vacuum source. Thus, air can beselectively transferred through the air delivery passage 124A of theassembly and onto a subject's skin without losing negative pressurealong the annular region of the tip defined by the peripheral and innerlips 132A, 128A. In some embodiments, this can advantageously permit thedelivery of air to the skin of the subject during a “wet”microdermabrasion process (e.g., one in which treatment fluids aredelivered to the working end of the device).

As noted above, in some embodiments, air is delivered through the airdelivery passage 124A in individual puffs. Accordingly, depending ontheir volume, intensity, pressure and/or other properties, such puffscan help exert an intermittent force along the subject's skin. As notedabove, such mechanical or pneumatic agitation of the skin can provideone or more benefits. For example, the resulting force or pressure onthe skin can help drive or push serums, liquids and/or other substancesbeing delivered to the tip (e.g., via the fluid delivery passage) deeperinto the skin tissue. The repetitive agitation created by the air puffscan also help loosen dirt, oils and/or other unwanted materials from thepores along the skin surface being treated.

The handpiece assembly 100A can be configured to allow a user to adjustthe manner in which air is delivered through the air delivery passage124 (e.g., including the specifics related to pulsing, such as, forexample, the frequency of pulsing, high and low pressures duringpulsing, the flowrate of air being delivered at various times during apulsing operation, etc.) and/or the amount of negative pressure that isapplied by the vacuum source through the suction passage 126A (e.g., orthe amount negative pressure that is realized along the tip 130A). Insome embodiments, the negative pressure within the suction passage 126Ais sufficiently high to maintain contact between the subject's skin andthe peripheral and inner lips 132A, 128A of the tip 130A during use.This can help maintain a steady and consistent flow of treatment fluidsto the working surface while a skin surface is exfoliated or otherwisetreated. A sufficiently high vacuum along the tip can also help ensurethat the lips 132A, 128A will not lose contact with the skin surface asair is delivered (e.g. in puffs) to the skin surface. As discussedabove, the manner in which pulsing is accomplished can be modified inaccordance with a user's desires or expectations. Thus, one or moreaspects related to the pulsing can be customized.

Needles and Other Mechanical Penetration and Agitation

According to some embodiments, one or more needles or other piercingmembers can be used to agitate and/or penetrate certain areas or regionsof the subject's skin, before, during or following a microdermabrasionor other skin treatment procedure. The needles or other penetratingmembers can be moved in and out of adjacent skin tissue over a period oftime. Consequently, a plurality of the small diameter passages can becreated in the targeted skin tissue, at least temporarily. Such passagescan allow serums, other treatment agents and/or other substances thatare delivered or otherwise applied to the skin to be advantageouslycarried deeper into the skin tissue. The use of needles in connectionwith skin treatment procedures is discussed in greater detail below.

In other embodiments, one or more ultrasonic transducers can bepositioned relative to the subject's skin before, during and/or after amicrodermabrasion procedure so as to selectively deliver acoustic energyto the skin. In some embodiments, the transducers are configured todeliver a relatively low amount of energy to the subject in order to atleast partially agitate (e.g., mechanically) the targeted skin tissue.The delivery of ultrasonic energy to the skin may, in certaincircumstances, cause the skin tissue to heat. In other embodiments, oneor more cooling devices can be placed on or in proximity with a skinsurface, as desired or required.

As with other energy sources disclosed herein, ultrasonic energy can bedelivered by a handpiece assembly that comprises one or moretransducers. However, in other embodiments, a separate device orcomponent is used to deliver a desired amount of ultrasonic energy to ornear the skin tissue.

Other Types of Energy Delivery

In other embodiments, the handpiece assembly and/or a separate (e.g.,non-integrated) device or system is configured to selectively deliverenergy to the targeted skin tissue of the subject. For example, thetypes of energy-based modalities that can be directed to the skinsurface include radiofrequency (RF), microwave, ultrasound and/or thelike. As noted above, such energy delivery can be performed before,during and/or after a microdermabrasion or other skin treatmentprocedure. In some embodiments, the application of such energy to theskin can provide one or more anatomical responses and/or benefits. Forexample, if the energy applied to the skin is sufficiently high, theskin tissue can be at least partially heated. Such heating and/or otherphysiological (e.g., biochemical, biological, chemical, etc.) responseor effect can, in some embodiments, facilitate the passage of serumsand/or other treatment fluids at least partially within the skin tissue.

Light Treatment

In some embodiments, one or more forms of light can be applied to theskin of the subject, before, during or after a microdermabrasion orother skin treatment procedure. The type of light, its intensity, power,frequency, wavelength, duration of exposure and/or other properties canvary, as desired or required for a particular application or use. Insome embodiments, one or more properties of the light source can bevaried, during a procedure and/or between procedures. In someembodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the light comprises oneor more LEDs or other illumination sources. As with other modalitiesdisclosed herein, the light can be incorporated or attached to ahandpiece that is being used for microdermabrasion. However, in otherembodiments, the light source is separate and distinct from amicrodermabrasion handpiece assembly.

In some embodiments, two or more different types of light sources can beprovided as options for the subject or the user performing a procedureon the subject. For example, with reference back to FIGS. 6A and 6B, oneof the light wands 402 is configured to emit blue light (e.g., lighthaving a wavelength of approximately 475 nm), while another light wand404 is configured to emit red light (e.g., light having a wavelength ofapproximately 650 nm). One or more wands or other light sources can beprovided having other target colors. Any other color or light can beemitted, as desired or required. For example, a single light wand can beselected that is adjustable so to select an exact wavelength of light(in addition to or in lieu of selecting intensity, power and/or anyother properties).

One or more light sources can be incorporated directly or indirectlyinto the handpiece assembly that is configured to performmicrodermabrasion. For example, an annular light can be positioned alongor near (or embedded partially within) the lip at the distal tip of amicrodermabrasion handheld assembly. In other embodiments, the light canbe removably mounted along an outside surface of the assembly.

In some embodiments, the use of light is configured to chemically orbiochemically “activate” one or more treatment fluids and/or othersubstances have been or are being delivered to the skin surface of thesubject. The activation of certain substances can provide one or moretherapeutic or otherwise beneficial results. In other embodiments, theuse of red, blue and/or other light can provide one or more directbenefits to the targeted skin tissue. In some embodiments, for example,red light therapy can be used to complement other skin care treatments,while blue light treatment can improve the general appearance of oilyand/or acne-prone skin.

In some embodiments, light can be used to heat and/or at least partiallymodify or affect (e.g., at the cellular level) skin and adjacent tissueof the subject. For example, heat-producing or heat-inducing lightsource can be directed at the skin for a specific time period, before,during or after a skin treatment procedure (e.g., microdermabrasion).Light sources can include bulbs (e.g., incandescent, fluorescent,low-pressure sodium, high-intensity discharge, etc.), LEDs, lasersand/or the like. As discussed in greater detail below, heating of theskin can provide one or more benefits to the subject. For example,heating of skin tissue can enable the pores of the subject to open ordilate (e.g., allowing serums and/or other treatment fluids orsubstances to penetrate deeper into the skin surface). Heating of theskin can also increase blood circulation in the adjacent vessels (e.g.,to help improve healing and recovery following a treatment procedure).

Thermal Treatment

Exposing the skin to hot and/or cold temperature can assist with variousaspects associated with microdermabrasion and other skin treatmenttechniques and procedures. For example, as discussed herein, heatingskin can open the skin's pores, thereby allowing serums, other treatmentfluids or materials and/or the like to enhance penetration and migrationof such materials into the skin. Further, cooling the skin can causepores to close, at least partially, allowing therapeutic fluids and/orother materials that previously entered the pores to stay within theskin for a longer time period.

In some embodiments, one or more devices (e.g., handheld devices) can beused to conductively cool and/or heat skin, before, during and/or aftera skin treatment procedure (e.g., microdermabrasion). One embodiment ofsuch a heating and cooling system is illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B. Asshown, the system can include a thermal docking station 510. In someembodiments, the docking station 510 comprises one or more wells, portsor openings 514, 518 for receiving and thermally recharging thermalconditioning handheld assemblies 600.

With continued reference to FIGS. 7A and 7B, the thermal rechargingstation 510 can be in thermal communication with one or more heatingand/or cooling devices (not shown). In some embodiments, one or morethermoelectric devices (e.g., Peltier devices) are positioned along theoutside, the inside and/or within the walls of the station 510. However,any other type of heating and/or cooling device can be used. In someembodiments, thermal conditioning devices are positioned along theexterior surfaces of the docking station walls (e.g., as schematicallyrepresented by circles 530, 532 in FIG. 7A). Regardless of the quantity,type, location, spacing, orientation and/or configuration of the thermalconditioning devices, the devices can be adapted to conductively heat orcool adjacent portions of the station 510, including the wells 514, 518that receive the thermal handpiece assemblies 600.

In some embodiments, the station comprises one or more thermallyconductive materials, such as, for example, aluminum, copper, othermetal or alloys. As illustrated in FIG. 7B, one or more of the wells514, 518 can include a pin, rod or other protruding member 516, 520. Asdiscussed in greater detail below, the thermal conditioning handheldassemblies 600 can include a central opening. In some embodiments, theassemblies 600 are generally hollow along their centerlines.Accordingly, the assemblies 600 can be conveniently mounted or otherwisepositioned on the pins 516, 520 when being placed within the wells 514,518 of the station 510. Therefore, as illustrated in FIG. 7A, the pins516, 520 can securely maintain the thermal handheld assemblies in agenerally vertical orientation when the assemblies are positioned withinthe station 510 for thermal recharging.

When the thermoelectric devices and/or other heating and/or coolingdevices of the station are activated, the wells of the station can beheated or cooled, in accordance with the desired thermal conditioningeffect of that station 510. In some embodiments, if thermoelectricdevices are used to heat or cool the station 510, an additional station(not shown) can be positioned on the opposite surface of thethermoelectric device so that the additional station also undergoesheating or cooling (e.g., the opposite thermal effect of the mainstation).

One embodiment of a thermal conditioning handheld assembly 600 isillustrated in FIGS. 8A and 8B. As shown, the assembly 600 can comprisean inner core 620 and an outer housing or shell 610. In someembodiments, the inner core 620 comprises copper, aluminum and/or anyother high heat transfer material (e.g., beryllium, other metals oralloys, etc.). In some embodiments, the copper and/or other material canbe coated (e.g., plated) with one or more layers of nickel, chromeand/or the like. The outer housing 610 can include ABS, Nylon and/or anyother plastic or other material with a relatively low thermalconductivity (e.g., to avoid excessively or uncomfortably hot or coldtemperatures being felt by a user who grasps and handles the assembly600).

As illustrated in FIGS. 8A and 8B and noted above, the thermal handheldassembly 600 can include an interior lumen or opening 628 that extendscompletely or partially through the assembly. The proximal end of theassembly 600 can be placed in fluid communication with a vacuum conduit650, if the assembly will be configured for suction. In sucharrangements, the conduit 650 is placed in fluid communication with avacuum or negative pressure source. In some embodiments, however, theheating or cooling system is configured to be used without suction.

With continued reference to FIGS. 8A and 8B, the handheld assembly 600can comprise a distal head 630. In the illustrated embodiment, the head630 includes a circular or rounded outer shape, having a generallysmooth surface. In some embodiments, the head comprises one or moreopenings 632 that are in fluid communication with the internal lumen orpassage 628 of the assembly 600. As best illustrated in FIG. 8B, in someembodiments, the head 630 forms a unitary structure with and is part ofthe core 620 of the assembly 600. As such, it advantageously comprisesone or more high heat transfer materials (e.g., copper) that can beheated or cooled relatively quickly when placed within a well of thestation 510.

Another embodiment of a thermal handheld assembly is illustrated in FIG.8C. As shown, the head 630A of this alternative embodiment is relativelylarger than the one illustrated in FIG. 8A. Further, the head 630A isasymmetrical. The head or other portion of a heating or cooling devicecan be customized (e.g., with respect to size, shape, material, comfortlevel, etc.) for a particular application or use.

Regardless of their exact shape, size, configuration and/or otherproperties, the thermal handheld assemblies 600, 600A can be used toselectively heat or cool a subject's skin surface. As noted above, inone embodiment, the surface to be treated (e.g., usingmicrodermabrasion, non-abrasive treatment using fluid and/or energydelivery, etc.) can first be heated to open the skin pores and/orprovide one or more other benefits. With the pores open, a fluiddelivery process can be performed, either with or without skin abrasion.Accordingly, any serums, other treatment fluids and/or other substancesthat are delivered to the working end of a skin treatment device (e.g.,along the skin surface that was previously heated), could pass deeperand/or with greater ease into the open pores of the skin. Following thetreatment protocol (e.g., fluid delivery only, fluid delivery withdermabrasion, etc.), the user can use a cold thermal conditioningassembly 600, 600A to cool the skin surface that was treated. As aresult of cooling the skin surface, the pores of the skin can at leastpartially close, thereby trapping the potentially beneficial serumsand/or other components within the skin. Such a treatment method canprovide for a quicker recovery time, fewer complications and/or one ormore other benefits or advantages.

As noted above, in some embodiments, the thermal conditioning handheldassemblies 600, 600A are configured to create a negative pressure orvacuum along the one or more openings 632, 632A at the assembly head630, 630A. As illustrated in FIG. 8B, such openings 632 can be placed influid communication with an inner lumen or passage 628 of the core 620,which in turn, is in fluid communication with a vacuum conduit 650.Thus, the vacuum source can be activated in order to draw the subject'sbody toward, and potentially partially into the opening 632, when thevacuum is activated. Accordingly, the vacuum feature allows a user tomaintain the distal head 630 of the assembly 600 in constant orsubstantially constant contact with the subject's skin during use. Insome embodiments, the vacuum source is pulsed (e.g., using a square wavescheme, between a high and low value), creating a pulsing effect at thehead 630 of the assembly. As discussed herein, the high and low valuesof pressure provided during a pulsing sequence can include positive airpressure (e.g., relative to atmospheric), negative air pressures (e.g.,relative to atmospheric) and/or zero. In some embodiments, the pulsingcan be helpful when the thermal conditioning handheld assembly 600, 600Ais used to heat or cool sensitive portions of the subject's anatomy(e.g., lymph-rich tissues). In some embodiments, assemblies 600A havinglarger head (e.g., FIG. 8C) can be used to heat or cool larger portionsof the body (e.g., back, torso, thighs, etc.).

According to some embodiments, the level of heating or cooling of thethermal assemblies 600 can be adjusted and controlled (e.g., bymodifying the duty cycle of the thermoelectric devices or any otherheating or cooling device that is thermally conditioning the station510). In some embodiments, a thermostat and/or other temperaturedetection is used to ensure that the operating temperature of thestation 510 and the handheld assemblies that the station is configuredto heat do not reach dangerous or uncomfortable extremes.

In other embodiments, a skin surface can be heated or cooled using anyother method or device. For example, skin can be heated using any of theenergy or other modalities discussed herein (e.g., RF, ultrasound,microwave, etc.). In one embodiment, the liquids, serums and/or othertreatment fluids delivered to the tip of a microdermabrasion device(e.g., from a vial or cartridge, a bottle of a manifold or tower system,etc.) can be heated or cooled before it reaches the skin surface.Therefore, one or more heating or cooling devices can be incorporatedinto the microdermabrasion handheld device or the fluid system that iscoupled to the handheld device.

Manifold System

According to some embodiments, as discussed above with reference to theschematic of FIG. 3, a handheld assembly can be in fluid communicationwith a fluid manifold system (e.g., as opposed to having a vial or otherfluid container positioned directly into the handheld assembly). Oneembodiment of a manifold assembly 1000 configured to receive multiplebottles or containers 1010 of one or more treatment fluids isillustrated in FIG. 9. As shown, the manifold assembly 1000 can include4 different loading areas, each of which is configured to receive abottle or other container 1010. Once properly secured to the station, abottle 1010 can be placed in fluid communication with a main dischargeconduit 1020 (e.g., via one or more intermediate conduits, not shown inFIG. 9).

With continued reference to FIG. 9, the manifold system can include aswitch 1050 at each station. Therefore, once a bottle 1010 can beenproperly secured to a station, the corresponding switch can be pressedor otherwise manipulated to activate that station. Accordingly, fluidfrom the activated container can be used, and the system can deliver adesired volume or amount of that particular liquid to the handpieceassembly during a skin treatment procedure. In other embodiments,however, no switch is necessary. For example, various bottles 1010 canbe loaded or otherwise secured to a station, and activation ordeactivation of that station can occur automatically or manually.

With continued reference to FIG. 9, each station of the manifold system1000 can include a solenoid valve or other flow regulating device 1070that selectively opens or closes to permit fluid from the correspondingbottle or container 1010 from passing to the main discharge conduit1020.

One embodiment of a bottle 1010 configured for placement into themanifold system 1000 is illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11. As shown, theupper end 1012 of the bottle 1010 can include a nozzle fitting 1014 thatis shaped, sized and otherwise configured to secure to a correspondingcoupling of the manifold system 1000.

RFID and Other Identification Features for the Fluid Containers

In some embodiments, the various bottles or other containers 1010positioned within a manifold system 1000 and/or vials or cartridges 1300positioned within a recess of the handheld assembly can comprise anautomatic identification tag 1150A, 1150B, 1350A, 1350B, such as, forexample, a RFID chip, a barcode, etc. Such tags can be used toadvantageously store information regarding the specific bottle, vial orother container. For example, the tag can include information regardingthe contents of the container, expiration date, manufacturing date,size, lot number, skin procedure with which the contents are intended tobe used, other limitations or restrictions on use (e.g.,counter-indications, adverse effects, other fluids with which thecontents should not be combined, etc.).

The RFID chip or other identifier can be read or otherwise detected(e.g., automatically, manually, etc.) by one or more readers ordetectors of a manifold system 1000, a handheld assembly 100 and/or anyother portion of a skin treatment system. For example, in someembodiments, such a reader can be placed at or near each station of amanifold system 1000 (e.g., adjacent the portion of the manifold towhich the nozzle 1014 of the bottle 1010 secures). Accordingly, the RFIDor other type of reader can detect and identify the RFID chip or otheridentifier of the bottle or other container. Likewise, a RFID or othertype of reader can detect and identify the RFID chip or other identifier1350 of a vial 1300 when the vial 1300 is properly positioned within thehandheld assembly.

Therefore, in circumstances where the detected identifier isinconsistent with the proper, safe, appropriate and/or approvedoperation of the system, the system can be configured to prevent fluidfrom that vial or container from being used (e.g., by terminating thevacuum source, by maintaining a solenoid valve or other valve in theclosed position, etc.).

The use of the RFID chips or other identifiers on the bottles, vialsand/or other containers of the system can provide one or more otheradvantages or benefits. The collection of data regarding use of thecorresponding container (e.g., bottle, vial, etc.) can be collected togenerate reports for billing, reordering and/or other purposes. In someembodiments, the number of times that a container can be removed andreinserted within a manifold or handheld assembly can be limited (e.g.,1, 2, 3, 4, etc.), as desired or required. For example, such limits canhelp prevent or reduce the likelihood of contamination of the fluid. Insome embodiments, the automatic identification of the fluid containerbeing secured to the system (e.g., manifold station, handheld assembly,etc.) can allow the system to determine if a rinse, flush and/or otherpreparatory steps are required before the fluid from that container canbe used.

According to some embodiments, the use of RFID chips or otheridentifiers can facilitate the execution of a particular skin treatmentprotocol by the system. For instance, the system can include variousbottles containing fluids necessary to carry out any one of a number ofvarious skin treatment procedures. For example, in one embodiment, atreatment sequence can be configured as a core or basic fluid deliverysequence (e.g., for use in a periodic or normal wet microdermabrasionprocedure). Other possible treatment modes or sequences include, but arenot limited to, anti-aging, anti-acne, skin lightening, oily skintreatment and/or the like. Each of the sequences or modes can includethe delivery of one, two or more various serums and/or other fluids thatare housed in the bottles secured to the manifold system.

In some embodiments, the system comprises a touchscreen and/or otheruser interface that allows a user to select from a number of severaltreatment protocols and/or other options. Such options can bepre-programmed (e.g., prior to the delivery of the system to a user). Insome embodiments, the user is permitted to create its own customizedprotocols, as desired or required. Regardless, once a specific treatmentprotocol is selected by a user, the system's control module can beconfigured to automatically recognize whether the serums and/or otherliquids necessary to complete the desired procedure have been loadedonto the system's manifold system. If the necessary products have beenproperly loaded onto the various stations of the system, the controlmodule can initiate the treatment process. Alternatively, if the controlmodule determines that one or more fluids are missing (and/or thatfluids included in a bottle already loaded onto the manifold system areimproper, e.g., because they have expired, they have been recalled, orfor any other purpose or reason), the control module can prevent thetreatment protocol from being initiated.

In some embodiments, the system (e.g., via a touchscreen or some otherinterface, visual, audible, etc.) can alert the user that one or more ofthe required serums and/or other substances necessary or desired for aselected protocol are either missing or should not be used. Accordingly,the system can prompt the user to make the necessary changes in order toresume with the protocol.

In other embodiments, a treatment system is configured to permit a userto manually enter information about the contents of a bottle or othercontainer loaded onto a station of the manifold system.

Specific Treatment Protocols

According to some embodiments, any of the skin treatment systemsdisclosed herein can be operated under one of several differenttreatment schemes or modes. For example, the user can select betweendifferent preprogrammed and/or customized protocols. In someembodiments, protocols can relate to treatment of certain skin ailments,conditions or types, such as, for example, anti-aging, skin lightening,skin tightening, acne, rosacea, oily skin and/or the like. Based on theselected protocol, one or more serums and/or other liquids can bedelivered to the skin during a procedure, either sequentially orconcurrently. For example, in some embodiments, one or more of thefollowing can be provided to the skin during treatment: bleachingagents, melanin production inhibiting agents, skin lightening products,vitamins, anesthetics (Lidocaine), human growth factors, non-humangrowth factors, platelet rich plasma (PRP), acids (e.g., glycolic acid,salicylic acid, etc.) antibiotics, chemical peel agents, antioxidants,exfoliating agents, peptides, stem cells, peroxides (e.g., benzoylperoxide), retinols, and/or the like.

In some embodiments, one or more of the following can also be provided,either in lieu of or in addition to one or more of the fluids and/orother materials listed above: cytokines, soluble collagen, matrixproteins, other serums, other anti-acne acids and materials,microcapsules, capsules, time-release products and substances, water(e.g., distilled, tap water, filtered, etc.), saline, other dilutants ordissolvents, lotions, soothing agents, brightening or lightening agents,medicants, other non-active or active compounds, other fluids ormaterials, combination or mixtures thereof and/or any other substance.

In some embodiments, a subject's own PRP can be extracted and deliveredto her or his skin using any of the devices and/or methods describedherein (e.g., air pulsing devices). Such a procedure can speed uprecovery following skin treatments, face lifts and/or the like.

According to some embodiments, a treatment protocol comprises apreliminary preparation phase or step. For example, such a step caninclude a lavage, cleaning, moisturizing and/or the like. In someembodiments, the preliminary phase or step includes one or more serumand/or other fluid treatments. For example, as discussed above, atreatment protocol can be selected based on the subject's condition(e.g., acne, oily skin, etc.) and/or desired result (e.g., skinlightening, skin tightening, etc.). This serum/fluid exposure step canbe done with or without mechanical exfoliation (e.g.,microdermabrasion). In some embodiments, a follow-up (e.g., tertiary)step includes the enhanced delivery of additional serums and/or otherfluids using needles, air pulsing and/or the like. In such steps, theserums and/or other fluids can be delivered deeper below the subject'sskin surface.

Needle-Based Treatment

FIG. 13 illustrates an embodiment of a handpiece assembly 2100 fortreating the skin. As shown, the assembly 2100 can comprise a main bodyportion 2110 with a distal end 2111 and a proximal end 2113. In someembodiments, the assembly 2100 comprises a tip 2160 configured to engagethe distal end 2111 of the main body portion 2110. The tip 2160 can beremovable from the main body portion 2110. The tip 2160 and main bodyportion 2110 can be manufactured as a unitary construction. The distalend 2111 of the main body portion 2110 can include one or more O-rings2116 or other sealing members. The O-rings 2116 can engage with the tipskirt portion 2162 so as to create a seal between the tip 2160 and themain body portion 2110. The main body portion can include one or morefluid delivery openings 2134 in, along or near the distal end of themain body portion, as well as one or more suction openings 2132 andenergy contact points 2136. A fluid delivery opening 2134 can connect toa fluid source 2124 via a fluid delivery conduit 2184 in the main bodyportion 2110, a suction opening 2132 can connect to a suction source2122 via a suction conduit 2182 in the main body portion 2110, and anenergy contact point 2136 can connect to an energy source 2126 via anenergy conduit 2186 in main body portion 2110.

In some embodiments, the tip 2160 comprises a tip skirt portion 2162, abase member 2165, a peripheral lip 2164, a plurality of needles 2166 andone or more tip ports 2168. The needles within the plurality of needles2166 can be of uniform length and diameter or may vary in length (e.g.0.5-2.5 mm) and/or diameter. The needles can comprise surgical steel(e.g., stainless steel), plastic and/or any other material suitable forpenetrating the skin. The one or more tip ports 2168 can engage with thefluid delivery openings 2134, suction openings 2132 and/or the contactpoints 2136 along or near the distal end 2111 of the main body portion2110. The peripheral lip 2164 can have many shapes, as shown in theembodiments 2160A, 2160B of the tip 2160 in FIG. 13. The tip 2160 canhave a rectangular peripheral lip 2164, a rounded or oval peripheral lip2164A, a triangular peripheral lip 2164B or any other shaped lip.

FIG. 14 shows an embodiment of a handpiece assembly 2200 for treatingthe skin where the handpiece assembly 2200 generally comprises a mainbody portion 2210 and a tip 2260. A fluid source point 2224 can belocated within a hollowed out portion 2252 of the main body portion 2210and is connected to a fluid delivery opening 2234 via a fluid deliveryconduit 2284. This embodiment could allow for the use of a fluidcartridge as a fluid source. For example, the fluid cartridge could fitinto the hollowed-out portion 2252 of the main body portion 2210 andcould engage with the fluid source point 2224. The main body portion 210could also comprise one or more O-rings 2216 or other sealing membersthat can engage with the tip 2260 to provide a seal between the tip 2260and the main body portion 2210. The tip 2260 can be removable from themain body portion 2210. Alternatively, the main body portion 2210 andtip 2260 can be manufactured as a single unitary part.

As shown in FIG. 15, a tip 2160 can comprise a peripheral lip 2164, aplurality of needles 2166, a base member 2165 and one or more tip ports2168. In some embodiments, the tip additionally comprises a tip skirtportion 2162. In one embodiment, the tip skirt portion 2162, the basemember 2165 and the peripheral lip 2164 can be adjustable with respectto each other or can be constructed as a unitary part. The plurality ofneedles 2166 can be coated with anti-oxidant or other skin nutrient.Additionally, a liquid-soluble material could be embedded in the surfaceof the needles 2166. As shown in FIG. 16, an embodiment of the tip 2160can have one or more fluid delivery points 2144 and one or more suctionpoints 2142. FIG. 16A shows an embodiment of the tip 2160 where there isa single fluid delivery point 2144 and a single suction point 2142.

In some embodiments, when the tip 2160 is applied to the skin 2180 of apatient, suction 2178 generated though one or more suction points 2142on the tip can pull the skin 2180 onto the plurality of needles 2166, asshown in FIG. 17. Contact between the skin 2180 and the peripheral lip2164 can create a seal around the treated area of skin 2180. Theplurality of needles 2166 can be sized and the suction 2178 can beapplied in such a way that the needles 2166 penetrate the epidermallayer of the skin 2180. During treatment, treatment fluids 2174 can bedelivered to the skin via one or more fluid delivery points 2144. Wasteand excess fluids can be removed from the treated area of skin 2180 viathe one or suction points 2142. This treatment could occur before,during, after or in lieu of other microdermabrasion or other skintreatment procedures.

Hollow needles 2366 can also be utilized for treatment of the skin, asshown in the embodiment of FIGS. 18-20. In a hollow needle embodiment,for example, treatment fluids 2374 can be delivered at least partiallyinto the skin 2180 via hollow needles 2366. The plurality of needles2366 can be coated with anti-oxidant or other skin nutrient.Additionally, a fluid-soluble material could be embedded in the surfaceof the needles 2366. In some embodiments, one or more suction conduits2342 can provide suction 2378 to assist in pulling the skin 2180 ontothe needles 2366 and removing waste and/or excess fluids from the skinand/or the treatment surface. In addition, one or more fluid deliverypoints 2344 can be placed in fluid communication with one or more of thehollow needles 2366. Treatment fluids 2374 can include, withoutlimitation, liquids, dermal fillers, hot or cold vapors, gases and/orthe like. By way of example, when delivering vapors and/or gases to theskin 2180, one or more of the hollow needles 2366 can be configured topenetrate into the secondary layer of the epidermis of the skin 2180.The use of hollow needles 2366 to treat the skin 2180 can occur before,during, after or in lieu of other skin treatments, as desired orrequired.

The plurality of needles 2466 can also be used to delivery energy 2446and/or heat to the skin 2180, as illustrated in FIG. 20. In someembodiments, energy 2446 is delivered via hollow needles and/or solidneedles. When delivering energy to the skin 2180, one or more of theplurality of needles 2466 can be configured to penetrate into thesecondary layer of the epidermis of the skin 2180. The source of theenergy 2446 can be radiofrequency (e.g. RF energy), microwave,ultrasound and/or any other source of energy 2126 appropriate fortreating the skin 2180. Using energy 2446 can at least partially damagethe skin 2180 and help trigger a beneficial healing or tissue repairresponse. Use of energy 2446 to treat the skin 180 can be performedbefore, during, after or in lieu of other skin treatments.

In addition to or in lieu of the use of suction 2578 to pull the skin2180 onto a plurality of needles 2566, the plurality of needles 2566and/or base member 2565 can be moved with respect to the peripheral lip2564, as shown in FIG. 21. In an embodiment, a force 2506 (e.g.pneumatic, mechanical, etc.) is used to move the plurality of needles2566 and/or base member 2565 a distance δ with respect to the peripherallip 2564. The distance δ could be varied in order to achieve an optimal,adequate and/or preferred depth of penetration of the skin 2180 by theneedles 2566. The force 2506 can be used in combination with or insteadof suction 2578, and may be used with embodiments having hollow and/orsolid needles 2566. The force 2506 can also be used in embodiments whereenergy 2446 is delivered to the skin 2180 via the plurality of needles2566.

In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the tip, the handpieceassembly and/or any other component or device can include rigid and/orsemi-rigid materials. For example, the tips can comprise one or morethermoplastics, other polymeric materials, rubbers, metals and/or thelike. Accordingly, the tips can be manufactured using any suitablemethod, such as, for example, injection or compression molding,thermoforming, other molding methods, casting and/or the like. The tipscan be disposable so that they are used once or only for a limitednumber of times. Alternatively, the tips can be reused. Therefore, insuch embodiments, the tips are preferably configured to withstand therequired cleaning, sterilizing and/or disinfecting procedures to whichthey may be exposed. In addition, any of the tips disclosed herein,either directly or by reference, can be used in wet and/or dry systems.In general, wet systems include skin treatment devices, assemblies orsystems in which serums, other fluids and/or other materials areconveyed to the tip during the procedure. On the other hand, dry systemsinclude skin treatment devices, assemblies or systems in which serums,other fluids and/or other materials are generally not conveyed to thetip during the procedure.

As discussed herein, one or more fluids or other substances can bedelivered to the tip of a handpiece assembly during a skin treatmentprocedure. In some embodiments, such fluids and/or other materials canbe stored within a cartridge that is secured to the handpiece assembly.Alternatively, these fluids and/or other materials can be stored in acanister or other container that is separate from the handpieceassembly. In such arrangements, as discussed herein, the handpieceassembly can be placed in fluid communication with one or morecontainers using conduits or other fluid lines.

In any of the embodiments described and/or illustrated herein, orvariations thereof, treatment fluids and/or other materials can bedelivered to the tip of a handpiece assembly using one or more ways. Forexample, in some embodiments, serums or other substances can bedelivered through a vial, cartridge, supply canister, fluid bottle(e.g., included in a larger manifold or multiple fluid distributionsystem) and/or the like. Such serums, compositions, other fluids orsubstances can be pre-mixed so that they are delivered to the tip andthe skin unmodified or substantially unmodified.

In other embodiments, serums, fluids, gels or other materials can be inthe form of a pack container dry granular material, viscous gels and/orthe like. Such packs can be mixed with water or some other fluid by auser to a desired concentration. In other embodiments, one or moretreatment materials can be impregnated or otherwise embedded into thetips of the handpiece assemblies. Thus, such materials (e.g., powers,solids, gels, etc.) can advantageously dissolve when they contact water,saline or some other liquid. In still other embodiments, the treatmentmaterials can be contained within a capsule, tablet or other enclosure.Such enclosures can be configured to dissolve when placed in water orsome other fluid. Therefore, a user may be required to place a capsule,the contents of a pack or some other materials into a cartridge,canister or other container and add water, saline or other fluid beforeuse.

In some embodiments, one or more serums or other substances can bedelivered to the treatment surface of a handpiece assembly to treat aparticular skin condition. For example, the system can be used to treatacne, dry or oily skin, fine lines, sun-damaged skin, other skindiseases or disorders and/or like.

In some embodiments, the serums, other materials and/or a combination ofsuch serums or other materials can be utilized for the treatment ofsubstantially most or all skin types. For example, such serums and/orother materials can be used when the handpiece assembly exfoliates skin.

In another embodiment, the serums, other materials and/or a combinationof such serums or other materials can be used during a follow-up (e.g.,secondary, tertiary, etc.) or finish treatment step. For example, suchserums and/or other materials can be used to hydrate the skin and/orlighten treat skin damage, either in lieu of or in addition toexfoliating skin. In such embodiments, the serums and/or other materialscan comprise human growth factors, cytokines, soluble collagen, matrixproteins, other proteins, anti-oxidants, hyaluronic acid and/or thelike.

In yet other embodiments, the serums, other materials and/or acombination of such serums or other materials can be used to target acneor oily skin conditions. Other serums, other materials and/orcombinations of such serums or other materials can be used to target oneor more types of skin conditions or treatments. Further, a particulartreatment procedure can include or use one, two or more of such serumsor other materials during various treatment phases (e.g., exfoliation,finish or polishing treatment, post-treatment, etc.).

In some embodiments, one or more kits can be developed that target aspecific type of user, skin condition, desired result and/or the like.For example, such a kit can comprise serums and/or other materials thattarget teenage acne. As discussed, the serums and/or other materialscontained in such kits can be in one or more different forms, such as,for example, liquids, gels, other fluids, powders, solids and/or thelike. In some embodiments, such serums and/or other materials can beconfigured for immediate use. Alternatively, a particular amount ofwater, saline or other liquids, other dilution or dissolving agentsand/or the like may need to be added to the serums and/or othermaterials to get them to a usable state. Kits can include one or morecartridges or other containers that are configured to be placed onto andremoved from a handpiece assembly as discussed herein.

In addition, depending on who the target user is (e.g., teenagers,adults, etc.) and/or how severe a particular condition is, theconcentration or strength of the serums and/or other materials can bevaried. For example, for younger users, a kit directed at acne treatmentcan comprise lower concentrations of serums and/or other materials. Byway of another example, kits comprising higher concentrations orstrengths of serums and/or other materials can be used to treat oilyskin or acne in adults. In another embodiment, a kit can be developed totarget users whose skin is generally typical (e.g., the users' skin isnot abnormally dry or oily, the users do not have excessive amount ofacne or scarring, etc.).

As discussed, the kits can include one, two or more different types oftreatment combinations. For example, a kit can comprise a firstcombination of serum(s) and/or other material(s) that is intended totarget the exfoliation of skin. The same kit may include a secondtreatment combination that can be used in a follow-up treatment to treatoily skin or the like. In other embodiments, however, a kit can comprisemore or fewer treatment combinations, as desired or required by aparticular skin treatment procedure.

For any of the embodiments disclosed herein that incorporate the use ofneedles to at least partially penetrate skin, one or more of the needlesor needle assembly incorporated into such designs can be configured tobe selectively thermally-conditioned (e.g., heated, cooled). Forexample, in some embodiments, the heating or cooling of the needles canoccur prior to the commencement of a needle penetrating procedure. Insome embodiments, for example, the needles or needle assembly can beheated using the delivery of electrical energy thereto. In otherembodiments, the needles or needle assembly can be selectively heated orcooled using one or more heating and/or cooling device (e.g.,thermoelectric devices), convective heaters or coolers, fluid baths,ovens, refrigeration and/or freezing storage/housing units and/or thelike.

Improved Fluid Penetration and Other Beneficial Effects DuringProcedures

According to some embodiments, as discussed above, the effectiveness ofperforming a treatment procedure can be enhanced by the delivery ofmechanical agitation to the skin surface being treated. For example, airor other fluid can be selectively pulsed or otherwise delivered to theskin surface at the same time that exfoliation and/or treatment fluiddelivery occurs. In other embodiments, other forms of mechanical energy(e.g., acoustic energy, needle penetrations, etc.) can be used, eitherin lieu of or in addition to fluid delivery. This can be conductedconcurrently with a skin treatment procedure and/or before or after askin treatment procedure as desired or required. As noted above, in someembodiments, it may be beneficial to provide air or other fluid to theskin surface being treated. The air can be delivered at a particularflowrate, pressure, intensity, pulsing rate or frequency and/or timeduration to help achieve a particular effect on the skin surface. Forexample, air or other fluid can be pulsed onto the skin during, beforeand/or after a microdermabrasion procedure to promote and facilitate thetransfer of serums, other liquids and/or other materials at leastpartially into the subject's skin tissue after exfoliation. In someembodiments, air pulsing can comprise square wave pulsing (e.g., havingsequential air delivery and no air delivery phases, one after another,etc.).

In some embodiments, air is delivered through the air delivery passage124A in individual puffs. Accordingly, depending on their volume,intensity, pressure and/or other properties, such puffs can help exertan intermittent force along the subject's skin. As noted above, suchmechanical or pneumatic agitation of the skin can provide one or morebenefits. For example, the resulting force or pressure on the skin canhelp drive serums, liquids and/or other substances being delivered tothe tip (e.g., via the fluid delivery passage) deeper into the skintissue. The repetitive agitation created by the air puffs can also helploosen dirt, oils and/or other unwanted materials from the pores alongthe skin surface being treated.

A handpiece assembly configured to deliver air or other gas during askin treatment procedure can be configured to allow a user to adjust themanner in which air is delivered through one or more air deliverypassages and/or the amount of negative pressure that is applied by thevacuum source through the suction passage (e.g., or the amount negativepressure that is realized along the tip). In some embodiments, thenegative pressure within the suction passage is sufficiently high tomaintain contact between the subject's skin and the peripheral and innerlips during use. This can help maintain a steady and consistent flow oftreatment fluids to the working surface while a skin surface isexfoliated or otherwise treated. A sufficiently high vacuum along thetip can also help ensure that the lips will not lose contact with theskin surface as air is delivered (e.g. in puffs) to the skin surface.

According to some embodiments, one or more needles or other piercingmembers can be used to agitate and/or penetrate certain areas or regionsof the subject's skin, before, during or following a microdermabrasionor other skin treatment procedure. The needles or other penetratingmembers can be moved in and out of adjacent skin tissue over a period oftime. Consequently, a plurality of the small diameter passages can becreated in the targeted skin tissue, at least temporarily. Such passagescan allow serums, other treatment agents and/or other substances thatare delivered or otherwise applied to the skin to be advantageouslycarried deeper into the skin tissue.

FIGS. 22A-22E illustrate various views of another embodiment of a skintreatment device 3200 comprising a main body 3210 and a tip 3240positioned along the distal end of the main body. In some embodiments,the tip 3240 can be removably secured to the main body 3210. Asillustrated in frontal view of FIG. 22B, the tip 3240 can comprise anouter or peripheral lip 3260 that is configured to contact the skinsurface when the device 3200 is properly positioned relative to thesubject's skin. The tip 3240 can additionally include an interior lip orridge 3252 that is also configured to contact the skin surface beingtreated (e.g., simultaneously with the outer or peripheral lip or ridge3260.

With continued reference to FIG. 22B, the generally annular area definedbetween the outer and inner lips or ridges 3260, 3252 can include one ormore openings or ports. For example, as shown, the annular area caninclude one or more vacuum or suction ports 3242. In some embodiments,such ports 3242 comprise posts or other members that extend above thebottom surface of the annular region. As shown in FIG. 22B, the vacuumor suction ports 3241 can be strategically positioned adjacent or near(e.g., immediately surrounding) the inner ridge 3252. Such aconfiguration can assist to maintain contact between the lips or ridges3260, 3252 and the subject's skin surface when the device 3200 is inuse. The ability to consistently and adequately maintain contact betweenthe tip and the subject's skin can be challenging when air or otherfluid is being pulsed through the central opening 3256 of the tip,during use. As can be appreciated, the delivery of positive air pressureduring pulsing can urge the tip (e.g., especially the inner lip 3252 andsurrounding structures) to lose contact with the skin. Therefore, thesystem can be configured to provide sufficient suction or vacuum along,near or adjacent the pulsing port 3256 to ensure that proper skincontact is maintained during use of the device. In other configurations,the suction ports or openings 3242 can be flush, generally flush and/orrecessed relative to the bottom surface of the annular region of thetip. Further, the shape, size, orientation, spacing, location, quantityand/or other characteristics of the ports or openings 3242 can bedifferent than illustrated in FIG. 22B, as desired or required.

As illustrated in FIG. 22B, the annular region defined between the twolips or ridges 3260, 3252 can also include one or more fluid deliveryports 3246 and/or additional vacuum or suction ports 3248. In oneembodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 22B, a single fluid delivery port3246 is generally opposite of a vacuum or suction port 3248,facilitating in the delivery of a treatment fluid across a largersurface area of the skin being treated. In other embodiments, thequantity, orientation, location, size, shape and/or other details aboutfluid delivery ports and/or additional suction ports can vary.

With continued reference to FIG. 22B, the region defined within theinterior of the inner lip 3252 includes an opening 3256 that is in fluidcommunication with one or more passages that extend through an interiorof the device 3200. As discussed in greater detail herein, such anopening 3256 can be used to selectively provide pulsed air or otherfluid to the skin during a treatment procedure.

As shown in FIGS. 22B and 22C, the pulsing opening 3256 of the tip canbe placed in fluid communication with a pulsing fluid connector 3204toward the distal or rear portion of the device 3200 (e.g., via one ormore interior lumens, conduits or other passages). Such a connector 3204can be coupled to a pulsed air source, either directly or indirectly, toselectively deliver air to the tip and the skin surface at a desiredfrequency, duty cycle, volume and/or the like. As discussed, thedelivery of such pulsed air or other fluid can assist with a deeperpenetration of treatment fluids into the skin surface, thereby enhancinga skin treatment procedure. For example, in some embodiments, themechanical agitation of the pulsing of air can drive, push or otherwiseforce treatment fluids that have been delivered to the skin surfacedeeper into the skin.

According to some embodiments, one or more parameters related to thepulsing of air or gases in the device 3200 can be adjusted by a user, asdesired or required. For example, in some embodiments, the high and lowpressure levels during a pulsing sequence can be modified. As notedabove, the low pressure level can be zero, positive or above zero, ornegative or below zero (e.g., with respect to atmospheric pressure).Thus, in some embodiments, air is pulsed between positive and negative(e.g., suction) pressures during a specific cycle. In other embodiments,both high and low pressure levels can be above atmospheric. Thus, apulsing cycle does not need to include a vacuum or suction phase. Inother embodiments, the low pressure level is zero or around zero. Thesepulsing options can be applied to any embodiments disclosed herein thatare configured or can be configured to be used with pulsed air deliveryto the skin interface (e.g., for improved serum penetration into thetargeted skin surface).

Although not illustrated in the embodiment of FIGS. 22A-22E, a tip 3240that is configured to permit the pulsing of air along a skin interfacecan additionally comprise one or more abrading members (e.g., posts,spiral, ridges, brushes, sharp edges, roughened surfaces, etc.). Thus,in some embodiments, while the device 3200 is activated (e.g., duringthe delivery of pulsed air and/or during the maintenance of suctionthrough corresponding vacuum ports, etc.), the user can selectivelytranslate or move the tip of the device relative to the targeted skinsurface to at least partially abrade and/or otherwise treat the skin.

However, in other embodiments, the device 3200 comprises a non-abradingtip 3240 for the purpose of driving serums and/or other fluids deeperinto the skin. This can be performed as part of a preliminary,intermediate (e.g., secondary) or follow-up (e.g., tertiary) step in atreatment process or protocol, as desired or required. For example, insome embodiments, such a non-abrading device is used (and thecorresponding method is utilized) following an abrading or preparatoryprocedure, step or phase.

With continued reference to FIGS. 22A-22E, device 3200 can be configuredto be placed in fluid communication with one or more serums and/or othertreatment fluids contained in a cartridge C. As shown, such a cartridgecan be secured within a corresponding recess of the handheld device3200, which in the depicted arrangement is located along the distal endof the device. In other embodiments, however, the device can include aport along its distal end (or along any other portion). Such a port (notshown in the illustrated arrangement) can be placed in fluidcommunication with a main fluid delivery line. In some embodiments, forexample, such a main fluid delivery line or conduit can be configured todeliver serums and/or other fluids from a manifold system, such as thosedisclosed herein with reference to FIGS. 3 and 9.

As shown in FIG. 22C, the handheld device 3200 can include additionalports 3202, 3204 for connecting to a vacuum source and/or a pulsed airsource. Such fluid sources can be separate from the treatment system ormay be at least partially incorporated into the system, as desired orrequired. In some embodiments, at a minimum, the vacuum and pulsed airsources are in data communication with a control module or othercontroller to permit a user of the device to advantageously regulate thelevel of suction and/or the level of pulsing during use.

According to some embodiments, the pulsed air concepts can be combinedwith a movable needle assembly that is configured to selectivelypenetrate skin. A system that combined needle penetrations with pulsedair delivery can provide more enhanced (e.g., deeper) infusion orpenetration of serums and/or other liquids being delivered to the skinsurface being treated. One embodiment of a combination needlepenetration and pulsed air delivery device 3300 is illustrated in FIGS.23A-23E. As discussed above with reference to FIGS. 22A-22E, the device3300 can include an inner lip or ridge 3352 and an outer lip or ridge3360. Such lips or ridges 3352, 3360 can be shaped, sized and otherwiseconfigured to contact a skin surface when tip 3340 of the device 3300 isproperly positioned against a subject.

With reference to front view of the tip in FIG. 23B, as with otherdevice embodiments disclosed herein, the area or space extending betweenthe inner and outer lips or ridges 3352, 3360 can be configured toreceive one or more treatment fluids when the device is in use. Forexample, when the lips or ridges 3352, 3360 contact a skin surface and avacuum or suction source is activated, serum and/or other liquid from afluid source (e.g., a cartridge C, as illustrated in FIGS. 23A-23E, amain fluid conduit that is coupled to a manifold system, etc.) can bedelivered through one or more fluid delivery ports 3346 located betweenthe ridges 3352, 3360. Spent fluid and/or other debris can be removedfrom the tip and the skin/device interface through a vacuum opening3348, which, in the illustrated arrangement, is also located between theridges 3352, 3360. As discussed above with reference to the device ofFIGS. 22A-22E, the fluid delivery port 3346 and the suction or vacuumport 3348 can be spaced apart from each other by a desired separationdistance, which can help ensure that the serums and/or other fluids thatare delivered to the skin pass along at least a portion of the tipbefore being removed. In some embodiments, this can provide for longercontact time between the serums and/or other liquids and the skin, whichcan result in a better treatment outcome.

With continued reference to FIG. 23B, the inner ridge or lip 3352 caninclude one or more openings or passages 3356 that are adapted toprovide pulsed air to the region defined by the ridge 3352. In thedepicted embodiment, there are three separate openings or openingsections 3356 contained within an interior of the inner ridge or lip3352. However, in other embodiments, the inner ridge can include more orfewer openings or opening sections, as desired or required. Pulsed airor other gas can be selectively provided through such openings 3356 tocreate a desired puffing or air-driven effect on the skin, as discussedin greater detail herein with reference to other air pulsingarrangements. In some embodiments, in order to maintain proper contactbetween the inner and outer ridges 3352, 3360 and the skin surface ofthe subject during use, one or more vacuum or suction ports 3342 can bestrategically positioned along or near the inner ridge. Thus, the use ofsuch suction can help prevent or reduce the likelihood of disengagementbetween the inner ridge 3352 and the skin surface being treated duringuse.

As shown in FIGS. 23A-23E, the device can additionally include a movableneedle assembly 3370 within an interior portion of the tip 3340. In theillustrated embodiment, a single movable needle assembly is positionedalong a central portion of the tip (e.g., within an interior of theinner ridge or lip 3352. However, in other embodiments, the size, shape,location, quantity and/or the details regarding the movable needleassembly 3370 can vary, as desired or required. The needle assembly caninclude a plurality of needles 3372 that extent outwardly (e.g., in adistal direction).

According to some embodiments, the needle assembly 3370 can beconfigured to reciprocate between proximal and distal positions duringuse. In some embodiments, the reciprocation or other movement of theneedle assembly 3370 is accomplished pneumatically or mechanically. Forexample, in one embodiment, an air or other fluid line is coupled, atleast partially, with a receptacle or housing in which the needleassembly 3370 is positioned. The delivery of positive and/or negativefluid pressure relative to the movable needle assembly 3370 (e.g.,and/or a related receptacle or housing) can be used to move the needleassembly 3370 in a desired manner. In some embodiments, the movableneedle assembly 3370 can be spring loaded (e.g., using a spring or otherresilient member or assembly S located within the handpiece. Thus, insuch configurations, the needle assembly 3370 can be resiliently biasedin a retracted (or proximal) orientation by the spring or otherresilient force. The exertion of a pressure or force on the needleassembly 3370 (e.g., using the selective delivery of air relative to theassembly 3370) can help displace the needle assembly 3370 away from itsresiliently retracted position to a more distal orientation against thespring or biasing force. Once the force on the movable needle assemblyis terminated, the needle can assume its retracted, proximal position.

According to some embodiments, the extent to which the needle assemblyis moved distally can be precisely controlled. For example, the degreeto which the needle assembly is advanced can depend on the spring forceof the spring or other resilient member, the amount of force that isapplied to the assembly 3370 and/or the like. Accordingly, suchparameters can help control the depth of needle penetration into theskin caused by the needle assembly 3370. Depth of needle penetration andthe resulting effect on the subject's skin tissue can also be alteredusing other methods. For example, the device 3300 can be provided to auser with a variety of tip options, each of which has a differentmaximum penetration distance (e.g., by varying the length, diameter,sharpness and/or other characteristics of the needles 3372 included inthe assembly 3370). In some embodiments, the user is permitted to alterthe maximum needle penetration distance by manipulation the tip and/orneedle assembly. For example, in some embodiments, the height of thelips or ridges can be adjusted. In other arrangements, the user canchange the orientation (e.g., depth) of the needle assembly within thehandpiece to effectively modify the penetration depth.

In some embodiments, a user presses a button or manipulates one or moreother controllers or features (e.g., switch, foot pedal, etc.) toselectively deploy the needle assembly 3370 distally (e.g., toward theskin surface). For example, in a pneumatically-controlled needleassembly configuration, the user can press a button to permitpressurized air to enter into the corresponding conduit of the handpieceso as to exert a force on the needle assembly. As a result, the needleassembly can be moved toward the skin. If sufficient force is applied tothe needle assembly, the needle assembly may move sufficiently far(e.g., in the distal direction) to engage and at least penetrate anadjacent skin surface of the subject.

In other embodiments, the manipulation of a button or other controllercan actuate a mechanically-generated force on the needle assembly 3370to move the assembly distally against a spring or other resilient force.In yet other arrangements, the needle assembly is not resiliently biased(e.g., does not include a spring or other resilient member). Forexample, the movable assembly can moved between a proximal and a distalposition using a motor, gear and/or the like. Regardless of the mannerin which the needle assembly is moved toward and away from the skinsurface of the subject, in some arrangements, the assembly can be movedalong several different proximal/distal positions. In some embodiments,available positions can be distinct (e.g., only at certain distances) orcontinuous (e.g., along any position between fully retracted and fullyextended), as desired or required.

In some embodiments, during use, the movable needle assembly 3370 can beactuated (e.g., to move distally to and through a skin surface) onlywhen the treatment device 3300 is not being translated or moved relativeto the subject's skin. Such a method of using these devices can helpavoid undesirable harm to the subject. The use of needles to createpassages within the one or more layers of skin being treated can provideadditional benefits to the subject. For example, serums and/or otherfluids delivered and/or otherwise located along the tip of the devicecan penetrate the subject's skin to a deeper extent. Such advantages andbenefits can be further enhanced by the simultaneous air pulsing on theskin tissue.

As shown in FIG. 23C, the device 3300 can include additional ports 3302,3304, 3306 for connecting to a vacuum source (e.g., to the suctionport), an air supply line (e.g., to the movable needle assembly; forselectively pneumatically actuating the assembly) and/or a pulsed airsource (e.g., for providing pulsed air to the tip of the device). Suchfluid sources can be separate from the treatment system or may be atleast partially incorporated into the system, as desired or required. Insome embodiments, at a minimum, the vacuum, air supply and pulsed airsources are in data communication with a control module or othercontroller to permit a user of the device to advantageously regulate thelevel of suction, position of the needle assembly and/or the level ofpulsing during use. In some embodiments, the button or other controllerassociate with movement of the movable needle assembly can be coupled orincorporated into a valve structure in order to regulate the delivery ofair or another gas to the assembly.

According to some embodiments, the needles 3372 of the needle assembly3370 can be solid or hollow. In some embodiments, the needle diameter is0.001-0.050 inches (e.g., 0.010 inches, 0.001-0.005, 0.005-0.010,0.010-0.020, 0.020-0.030, 0.030-0.040, 0.040-0.050 inches, diametersbetween the foregoing ranges, etc.). In other embodiments, the needlediameter is less than 0.001 inches or greater than 0.050 inches (e.g.,0.050-0.060, 0.060-0.070, 0.070-0.080, 0.080-0.090, 0.090-0.100 inches,diameters between the foregoing ranges, greater than 0.100 inches,etc.). In some embodiments, the needle length is 0.05-5 mm (e.g.,0.5-2.5, 0.05-0.1, 0.1-0.2, 0.2-0.3, 0.3-0.4, 0.4-0.5, 0.5-0.6, 0.6-0.7,0.7-0.8, 0.8-0.9, 0.9-1.0, 1-2, 2-3, 3-4, 4-5 mm, lengths between theforegoing ranges, greater than 5 mm, etc.).

In any of the embodiments disclosed herein that incorporate a needleassembly specially or any needle penetration technologies generally, theneedles can be solid and/or hollow. In some embodiments, the needles canbe configured to be selectively heated or cooled. For example, in oneembodiment, the needles can be heated using resistive heating (e.g., viaelectrical energy, radiofrequency energy, etc.), using vapor (e.g., hotvapor) or similar techniques, thermoelectric devices and/or the like.

In any of the treatment embodiments disclosed herein, one or morepulsing parameters can be modified to create a desired effect on thesubject's skin. For example, as noted above, the high and low pulsepressures can be adjusted. Further, in some embodiments, the duty cycle,frequency, air flowrate and/or other properties can be modified, asdesired or required. For example, the duty cycle can be modified between20 and 60% (e.g., 20-25, 25-30, 30-35, 35-40, 40-45, 45-50, 50-55,55-60%, duty cycles between the foregoing ranges, etc.). In otherembodiments, the duty cycle for the pulsed air system is greater than60% (e.g., 60-70, 70-80, 80-90, 90-95%, duty cycles between theforegoing, greater than 95%, etc.) or less than 20% (e.g., 0-5, 5-10,10-15, 15-20%, duty cycles between the foregoing ranges, etc.).

According to some embodiments, for any of the arrangements disclosedherein, the frequency of the pulsed air can vary between 2 and 15 Hz(e.g., 2-3, 3-4, 4-5, 5-6, 6-7, 7-8, 8-9, 9-10, 10-11, 11-12, 12,-13,13-14, 14-15 Hz, frequencies between the foregoing ranges, etc.). Inother embodiments, however, the frequency of pulsed air can be less than2 Hz (e.g., 0-0.5, 0.5-1, 1-1.5, 1.5-2 Hz, frequencies between theforegoing ranges, etc.) or greater than 15 Hz (e.g., 15-20, 20-25,25-30, 30-40, 40-50 Hz, frequencies between the foregoing ranges,greater than 50 Hz, etc.).

To assist in the description of the disclosed embodiments, words such asupward, upper, bottom, downward, lower, rear, front, vertical,horizontal, upstream, downstream have been used above to describedifferent embodiments and/or the accompanying figures. It will beappreciated, however, that the different embodiments, whetherillustrated or not, can be located and oriented in a variety of desiredpositions.

Although several embodiments and examples are disclosed herein, thepresent application extends beyond the specifically disclosedembodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of theinventions and modifications and equivalents thereof. It is alsocontemplated that various combinations or subcombinations of thespecific features and aspects of the embodiments may be made and stillfall within the scope of the inventions. Accordingly, it should beunderstood that various features and aspects of the disclosedembodiments can be combine with or substituted for one another in orderto form varying modes of the disclosed inventions. Thus, it is intendedthat the scope of the present inventions herein disclosed should not belimited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above, butshould be determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.

While the inventions are susceptible to various modifications, andalternative forms, specific examples thereof have been shown in thedrawings and are herein described in detail. It should be understood,however, that the inventions are not to be limited to the particularforms or methods disclosed, but, to the contrary, the inventions are tocover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling withinthe spirit and scope of the various embodiments described and theappended claims. Any methods disclosed herein need not be performed inthe order recited. The methods summarized above and set forth in furtherdetail below describe certain actions taken by a practitioner; however,it should be understood that they can also include the instruction ofthose actions by another party. The methods summarized above and setforth in further detail below describe certain actions taken by a user(e.g., a professional in some instances); however, it should beunderstood that they can also include the instruction of those actionsby another party. Thus, actions such as “moving a handpiece” or“delivering a fluid” include “instructing moving a handpiece” and“instructing delivering a fluid.” The ranges disclosed herein alsoencompass any and all overlap, sub-ranges, and combinations thereof.Language such as “up to,” “at least,” “greater than,” “less than,”“between,” and the like includes the number recited. Numbers proceededby a term such as “about” or “approximately” include the recitednumbers. For example, “about 10 mm” includes “10 mm.” Terms or phrasespreceded by a term such as “substantially” include the recited term orphrase. For example, “substantially parallel” includes “parallel.”

What is claimed is:
 1. A skin treatment system comprising: a handhelddevice comprising a main body and a tip, wherein the tip is positionedalong a distal end of the handheld device; a fluid delivery conduitpositioned at least partially within an interior of the main body, thefluid delivery conduit placing the tip in fluid communication with afluid source; a suction conduit positioned at least partially within aninterior of the main body, the suction conduit placing the tip in fluidcommunication with a vacuum source; an air delivery conduit positionedat least partially within an interior of the main body, the air deliveryconduit being configured to deliver air to the tip; wherein the tipcomprises an outer ridge configured to contact a skin surface during atreatment procedure; wherein the tip further comprises an inner ridge,the inner ridge being completely surrounded by the outer ridge, whereinthe outer ring and the inner ring define an annular region along thetip; wherein each of the fluid delivery conduit and the suction conduitinclude at least one port, the ports located within the annular regionalong the tip; and wherein the air delivery conduit is in fluidcommunication with an air delivery port, the air delivery port beinglocated within an area surrounded by the inner ridge.
 2. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the air delivery conduit is configured to deliver airto the tip in a pulsed pattern, wherein air delivery to the tip enhancesthe passage of liquids through the skin surface during use.
 3. Thesystem of claim 2, wherein the pulsed pattern comprises alternatingbetween a high pressure and a low pressure air flow.
 4. The system ofclaim 2, wherein the pulsed pattern comprises a step-like pattern.
 5. Amethod of treating skin, comprising: moving a tip of a handheld devicealong a targeted skin surface of a subject; wherein at least one suctionregion of the tip is configured to form a suction seal with the targetedskin surface during use; activating a suction source to engage at leasta portion of the tip with the targeted skin surface; wherein activatinga suction source helps remove spent fluid and other debris away from thetargeted skin surface via a suction conduit, wherein the suction conduitis configured to be in fluid communication with the suction source;providing a fluid to the targeted skin surface of the subject through afluid delivery conduit to the tip using a positive pressure within thefluid delivery conduit and according to a pulsed pattern; wherein usingpositive pressure within the fluid delivery conduit to provide the fluidto the targeted skin surface helps drive the fluid deeper into thetargeted skin surface; and wherein the pulsed pattern comprisesalternating between a first pressure and a second pressure, the firstpressure being greater than the second pressure.
 6. The method of claim5, wherein the pulsed pattern comprises a sinusoidal pattern.
 7. Themethod of claim 5, wherein the pulsed pattern comprises a step-likepattern.
 8. The method of claim 5, further comprising abrading skin,wherein the tip comprises at least one abrading member, the at least oneabrading member being configured to abrade skin when moved relative tothe targeted skin surface.
 9. The method of claim 5, further comprisingat least partially penetrating the targeted skin surface of a subjectusing a plurality of needles.
 10. The method of claim 9, wherein theneedles are positioned on a movable needle assembly, said movable needleassembly being located along the tip of the handheld device.
 11. Themethod of claim 5, further comprising preparing the targeted skinsurface of the subject prior to moving the tip of the handheld devicealong the targeted skin surface.
 12. The method of claim 11, whereinpreparing the targeted skin surface comprising heating or cooling thetargeted skin surface.
 13. A method of treating skin, comprising: movinga tip of a handheld device along a targeted skin surface of a subject;wherein at least one suction region of the tip is configured to form asuction seal with the targeted skin surface during use; activating asuction source to engage at least a portion of the tip with the targetedskin surface; wherein activating a suction source draws a volume of atleast one treatment media to the targeted skin surface being treatedalong the at least one suction region of the tip; providing a fluid tothe targeted skin surface of the subject while maintaining a suctionseal between the tip and the targeted skin surface along the at leastone suction region; and at least partially penetrating the targeted skinsurface of a subject using a plurality of needles.
 14. The method ofclaim 13, wherein the needles are positioned on a movable needleassembly, said movable needle assembly being located along the tip ofthe handheld device.